WhatsApp is rolling out a dedicated Events hub that gives users one place to create, manage, and review events. The new section is appearing inside the app settings, making it easier to find upcoming events without searching through individual chats and groups.
The update also makes WhatsApp Events more flexible. Users can create events directly from the new hub, customize details such as the time and location, and invite people who do not even have a WhatsApp account.
WhatsApp Events Move Into A Dedicated Hub
The new Events section appears in WhatsApp’s settings with a badge that makes it easier to spot. Once opened, it shows events that users have created or been invited to, bringing information that was previously spread across different conversations into one place.
Users can create an event by selecting Create event and adding a name, optional description, start and end times, and a location. They can also add a WhatsApp call link, choose when guests receive a reminder, and add a cover photo.
WhatsApp automatically adds the host’s name, while another option lets the organizer decide whether guests can bring additional people. Events can still be created directly inside individual chats, groups, and communities.
The dedicated hub mainly removes the need to repeatedly open conversations just to find an event or check its details.
People Without WhatsApp Can Join Events
One of the more useful parts of the update is that event guests do not necessarily need a WhatsApp account.
When an event is created, WhatsApp generates an invitation link that can be shared with anyone. People without WhatsApp can open the link to view the event name, date, and time before deciding whether to attend.
Guests without an account can respond by entering their name and verifying their phone number. Additional information, including the full location and call link, becomes available after they confirm their attendance.
Hosts can see guest names, responses, and phone numbers when managing an event. Confirmed guests can also see the names and responses of other attendees, while phone numbers are only visible to people who already have the contact saved.
WhatsApp says personal messages and calls remain end-to-end encrypted, including when users create or participate in events.
WhatsApp Events Hub Is Rolling Out On Android
The Events hub is currently rolling out to some beta testers using WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.36.5. Availability is being expanded gradually, so installing the compatible version does not guarantee that the feature will immediately appear.
WhatsApp has not announced when the Events hub will reach all Android users or when it will be available on iPhone.
The update builds on WhatsApp’s existing Events feature, which expanded from group chats and communities to individual conversations. With the new hub, users can now manage those events from a central location instead of relying on individual chats.
(via WABetaInfo)
