Why do WhatsApp messages only arrive when I open the app - briefly?
WhatsApp messages may not arrive immediately because the app uses push notifications to alert you of new messages. When you open the app, it syncs with the server to download and display the messages.
Why do WhatsApp messages only arrive when I open the app - in detail?
The phenomenon of WhatsApp messages arriving only when you open the app is a result of several factors related to how modern messaging applications are designed to optimize performance, battery life, and data usage.
Firstly, WhatsApp employs what is known as "push notifications" for message delivery. Unlike traditional SMS, which are delivered directly to your phone by the carrier's network, push notifications rely on an internet connection. When a message is sent to you, it first reaches WhatsApp's servers. From there, WhatsApp needs to send a notification to your device informing it that a new message has arrived.
However, for this process to work seamlessly, the app must be running in the background or have certain permissions enabled on your phone. If these conditions are not met, the messages will not be delivered until you manually open the app. This is because, when the app is closed or not running in the background, it doesn't actively check for new messages from WhatsApp's servers.
Additionally, many smartphones have built-in power management features that can restrict background activities to save battery life. These features may limit WhatsApp's ability to run continuously in the background, thereby preventing real-time message delivery. In such cases, you might only see your messages when you open the app because that is when the app is allowed to fully connect to the network and download any pending messages.
Furthermore, some phones have aggressive doze modes or battery optimization settings that can put WhatsApp into a deep sleep state when not in use. This means the app is not actively processing new messages until you open it again. To ensure uninterrupted message delivery, users should check their phone's settings and adjust any power-saving features to allow WhatsApp to run properly in the background.
Lastly, network connectivity plays a significant role in message delivery. If your device is in an area with poor or no internet connection, messages may not be delivered until you move to a location with better signal strength. Opening the app helps establish a fresh connection and prompts WhatsApp to check for any pending messages.
In summary, the delay in message arrival on WhatsApp when the app is closed is primarily due to how push notifications work, combined with power-saving features on smartphones and network connectivity issues. To ensure timely message delivery, users should ensure that WhatsApp has the necessary background permissions and adjust their phone's settings to allow for better background activity management.