In a bid to tackle the growing issue of spam, WhatsApp is implementing new restrictions on how many messages users and businesses can send to unknown contacts without receiving a response. Originally designed for seamless communication among personal contacts, WhatsApp has evolved significantly to include features like groups, communities, and business messaging. With these advancements, users are now inundated with an overwhelming amount of messages, making it increasingly challenging to keep up.
Under the new system, all messages sent by users and businesses to others will count towards a monthly limit, unless a response is received. For example, if you meet someone at a conference and send them three messages, those messages will contribute to your limit. Although WhatsApp has not disclosed the specific limit at this time, it is currently testing various thresholds. To help users stay informed, the app will notify them with a pop-up warning as they approach the limit, allowing them to adjust their messaging habits and avoid potential blocks.
According to a statement from the company to TechCrunch, this new test will be rolled out in multiple countries over the coming weeks. WhatsApp emphasized that average users are unlikely to reach these limits, ensuring that their messaging experience remains largely unaffected. The primary focus of these new controls is to combat spamming behaviors exhibited by certain individuals and businesses that flood users with unsolicited messages.
As I browse through my own WhatsApp inbox, it's not uncommon to find over 50 unread messages. A significant portion of these messages often originates from businesses and unknown senders. This sentiment is echoed by many users, particularly in regions like India, where WhatsApp serves as a versatile communication platform. The application has become a marketplace for various interactions, leading to an influx of marketing messages that many find intrusive.
Over the past year, WhatsApp has been actively working to reduce spammy behavior through various tools and protective measures. In July 2024, the company began testing restrictions on the number of marketing messages a business can send within a month. Furthermore, in 2024, WhatsApp introduced an option that allows users to unsubscribe from marketing communications, enabling them to continue receiving important updates or support without being overwhelmed by spam.
With these new initiatives, WhatsApp aims to enhance user experience while maintaining the platform's integrity as a reliable communication tool. As the company continues to innovate, users can expect more features designed to protect them from unwanted messages and improve their overall messaging experience.
