WhatsApp Plans New Message Limits to Curb Spam

WhatsApp is set to tighten its grip on spam through a novel approach. As reported by TechCrunch, the messaging service owned by Meta is trialing restrictions on the number of messages users and businesses can dispatch to those who’ve not responded.

Testing New Caps Across Countries

This trial will impose a cap on every message sent to unknown recipients. Though WhatsApp hasn’t yet determined a definitive number, it’s playing with various limits to pinpoint the most effective approach. The testing phase is expected to commence in several countries in the upcoming weeks.

Before users hit the threshold, WhatsApp will issue a warning pop-up indicating the remaining message count. Should users exceed the cap, they would be temporarily barred from messaging new recipients.

Regular Chats Likely Unaffected

WhatsApp reassures that the typical user won’t find themselves nearing this limit. Messages that elicit a reply aren’t factored into the count, meaning standard conversations won’t be disrupted. These new parameters target spammy tactics and mass messages sent with no interaction in return.

Part of a Bigger Anti-Spam Plan

This initiative aligns with WhatsApp’s broader agenda to mitigate spam. Recent feature updates have introduced options to block unknown numbers directly from the Lock Screen, opt-out of marketing messages, leave groups discreetly, and impose constraints on bulk messaging for new accounts.

Will the proposed message limits effectively cut down spam, or might they inadvertently cause complications for businesses? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.