Chat/Threading

Problem

WhatsApp doesn't allow editing messages after a few minutes of sending them. This limitation can lead to chaotic conversations where topics bounce back and forth like a ping pong ball. What if there was a possibility to add secondary messages to your own messages or those of others? This feature could be useful when you forget details you need to add or when you want to keep the conversation tidy. It would prevent situations where you're discussing Phase 1 while your colleagues have moved on to Phase 10.

Should we allow threading in chat?

If so, in which way?

Threading in Chat

Possible solutions

1. Displaing threaded comments with a distiguiscible color (e.g. 30% less opacity for both green/white = sent/received)

2. Users can to long-press (in mobile) a message to start a thread. Threads will be displaied taking the first line of the message you long-press (you can even select multiple messages) and the new conversation will appear:

• Together with people and groups on the left pane, in chronologic order so the one at the top is the most recent that received a new message
• In a specific part only for threads above people and groups
• Providing a 'view thread' in the filters tabs above people/groups
• Enabling to switch between threaded and chronological views

Would it be beneficial to add contextual comments directly beneath your original messages?

WhatsApp Threading Potential: Contextual Comments Beneath Original Messages

Main Characteristics

• Add details to an already sent message
• Provide immediate clarifications
• Maintain conversation context
• Prevent misunderstandings

Communication Advantages

• Enrich original information
• Avoid sending multiple messages
• Maintain an orderly conversational flow
• Allow more articulated explanations

Technological Context

Currently not a standard feature in chats like WhatsApp, but would represent a significant evolution in digital communication, allowing:

• Linear comments under the original message
• Preservation of original context
• Facilitation of supplementary explanations

Would it be beneficial to transform message interaction from linear to contextually adaptive?

WhatsApp Threading Potential: Contextual Conversation Branching

Proposed Feature Benefits

• Enable focused discussions from specific messages
• Reduce conversation noise
• Provide granular communication options
• Improve context preservation

Potential Implementation

• Long-press on a specific message
• Create a new thread/conversation branch
• Option to invite specific contacts to the new conversation

Conversation List Placement

The new conversation threads could be referenced in:

• A dedicated "Threads" section
• Integrated within existing chat lists
• Accessible through a new filter category

User Experience Considerations

• Optional feature to prevent overwhelming users
• Clear visual distinction for threaded conversations
• Easy navigation between original and new threads