WhatsApp is testing a new feature to help users remember to reply to messages

WhatsApp is working on a new feature designed to help users set reminders for specific messages, ensuring important conversations don't get forgotten. In addition, another option is being developed to notify users about unread messages or status updates from frequently contacted individuals. These features, discovered by WABetaInfo in the Android beta version of WhatsApp, aim to improve user convenience. The information was reported by Gazeta.Ru.

Message Reminders Feature

The reminder function, spotted in WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.25.21.14, allows users to set alerts for individual messages—ideal for those who often postpone replying and then forget.

Here's how it works:

1. Setting a Reminder: The user long-presses a message, selects "Remind me" from the menu, and chooses a time interval—2, 8, or 24 hours, or a custom time.
2. Visual Indicator: A bell icon appears in the corner of the message, making it stand out in the chat.
3. Notification: When the time is up, WhatsApp sends a reminder notification that includes the message text, chat name, and—if applicable—a media preview.

According to WABetaInfo, this feature is already available to some beta testers with specific app updates. It is similar to Telegram’s message scheduler but focuses on reminders for received or sent messages rather than timed delivery.

Unread Status Notifications

Another feature under development is designed to help users track unread messages or status updates from priority contacts. As per WABetaInfo, users will be able to enable notifications for statuses posted by favorite contacts or those they interact with frequently. The setting will be accessible in the app's notification section—particularly useful for users who receive a large volume of messages and risk missing key updates.

Privacy and Security

WhatsApp continues to emphasize privacy. As with the previously tested "Quick Recap" feature, these new tools will use Private Processing technology—data is encrypted and processed in a secure environment, ensuring that neither WhatsApp nor its parent company Meta (banned in Russia) can access message content or notifications. These features will not function in chats protected by Advanced Chat Privacy.

Comparison with Other Messengers

While WhatsApp still lags behind Telegram in some aspects (like scheduled messages), these new additions show the platform is working to close the gap. For example:

• Telegram offers a "Saved Messages" feature for personal notes and reminders.
• Viber has "My Notes" with similar functionality.
• WhatsApp introduced "Message Yourself" in 2022, allowing users to send notes to their own chat.

The upcoming reminder feature complements this and positions WhatsApp as a more versatile tool for task management.

Background and Context

Previously, WhatsApp offered reminders via integration with the Any.do service in 2019, which required a $2.99/month subscription and worked through a chatbot—limiting its appeal. The new feature is built directly into the app and does not require third-party services, making it far more accessible.

In parallel, WhatsApp is testing several other enhancements such as Quick Recap for summarizing missed messages and auto-delete for timed message removal—highlighting its broader focus on improving user experience.

Prospects and Challenges

These upcoming features could significantly boost productivity—especially for users who rely on WhatsApp for work and personal task management. Reminders and unread message alerts could streamline communication and help avoid missed follow-ups. However, some challenges remain:

• Notification Overload: Too many alerts could annoy users if customization options are limited.
• Beta Access Limitations: These tools are currently available only to beta testers; a full rollout may take months.
• Market Competition: Telegram and Viber already offer similar features. WhatsApp must emphasize ease of use and reliability to stand out.

Although there is no confirmed launch date yet, progress in beta testing suggests the features could arrive in the coming months.

Conclusion

WhatsApp is steadily expanding its functionality to stay competitive with other major messaging platforms like Telegram and Viber. The new message reminder and unread status alert features aim to make the app more effective for managing chats and tasks. With a focus on privacy, simplicity, and practical use, these tools may become a valuable upgrade for users looking to stay organized. All that’s left is for the public release—so users can try them firsthand and see how they reshape the everyday messaging experience.