Apple and Google, it’s time to fix text-messaging groups.
Here’s what happened in my neighborhood during the wildfires: A neighbor started a text-messaging chain with the phone numbers they had. Others began adding more numbers to the chain, and that’s when the chaos started. For reasons that don’t matter here, every time a number was added, a new group was created in my SMS inbox. What should have been one big group texting chain for the neighborhood splintered into five, because the only way to add non-iOS numbers was to create a new group.
It quickly got noisy and confusing. Eventually, someone—me—stepped in and created a WhatsApp group, shared the link, and got everyone on the same chain. Finally, we had a single, reliable space to share updates in a very fluid situation. WhatsApp, with its cross-generational, cross-platform, real-time functionality, fixed the problem. Let that sink in.
This isn’t a humblebrag. It is one of many WhatsApp groups live right now keeping those affected updated on FEMA applications, insurance claims, access to food and supplies, and the best contractors for rebuilding. WhatsApp has become how communities are staying connected. More than even Facebook or Instagram.
I’ve talked at length about how overdue text messaging is for an inbox upgrade, so I won’t belabor the point. But this isn’t about “Everyone should be on Android” or “Just use iOS.” This not-my-platform nonsense has to stop. Basic features like group texting need to work for everyone.
End of rant.