# WhatsApp to Broaden Event Scheduling Features
WhatsApp, the well-known messaging service owned by Meta, is preparing to improve its offerings by extending its event scheduling functionality from just group chats to private chats as well. This move is designed to give users more flexibility in coordinating and managing their appointments directly within the app.
## Enhanced Scheduling Features
According to WABetaInfo, the most recent beta version of WhatsApp has rolled out the option to create events from private chats. This capability was earlier confined to group chats, where users could effortlessly organize meetings, establish reminders, and schedule appointments. With this update, users can now arrange events while chatting with friends or colleagues, simplifying calendar management without needing to switch to a separate calendar app.
The scheduling feature enables users to specify locations, include links for video and audio calls, and send reminders, all within the chat interface. This integration is tailored to optimize the planning experience, encouraging users to depend on WhatsApp for their scheduling tasks.
## Rivaling Calendar Applications
The extension of this feature represents a strategic initiative by WhatsApp to establish itself as a genuine alternative to conventional calendar applications. By allowing users to organize events during chats, WhatsApp intends to streamline the meeting and appointment planning process. This could potentially decrease the necessity for users to toggle between different apps, thereby improving their overall usability.
Interestingly, WhatsApp’s effort comes in light of speculation about Apple’s intentions to introduce a new app dedicated to sending invitations for real-life events. This upcoming application, anticipated to be unveiled shortly, aims to offer iPhone and iPad users a fresh way to invite others to gatherings, thus increasing competition in the event planning arena.
## Upcoming Features
Beyond the event scheduling functionality, WhatsApp is also looking into the possibility of enabling users to access View Once media on linked devices. At present, View Once media, which vanishes after being viewed, can only be reached on the primary device where WhatsApp is registered. This enhancement would be particularly advantageous for users who engage with WhatsApp across multiple devices, granting them more flexibility in managing their media.
## Rollout and Future Enhancements
While the new event scheduling capability is currently accessible in the beta version of WhatsApp, there is no confirmed schedule for when it will be made available to the broader public. Interested users can participate in the beta version via TestFlight, although it is limited to a specific group of individuals.
WhatsApp continues to be a free application available for download on the App Store, and with these forthcoming features, it seeks to boost user interaction and convenience.
## Summary
WhatsApp’s extension of its event scheduling capability to private chats represents a vital advancement in enhancing user experience and convenience. By embedding event planning seamlessly into chat interactions, WhatsApp not only simplifies appointment organization but also positions itself as a formidable alternative to specialized calendar applications. As the app progresses, users can anticipate additional features that will bolster their messaging and scheduling functionalities.
