Keep Your WhatsApp Chat with HabitGPT Active: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re using HabitGPT, you know how invaluable it is to have an AI assistant keeping you on track with reminders, plans, and nudges. However, we’ve heard from some members about an annoying snag: WhatsApp automatically times out conversations after 24 hours of inactivity.

This timeout isn’t random—it’s WhatsApp’s way of protecting users from spam. But for HabitGPT users, it can interrupt the flow, especially for those of us with ADHD or busy schedules who might forget to check in.

The good news? You can set up automations to keep HabitGPT ready to support you without needing to manually restart the conversation. Here’s how!

Why Does WhatsApp Time Out?

WhatsApp’s 24-hour timeout policy helps protect users by limiting how long businesses or bots can send messages without a response. This is great for blocking spammers but not so helpful when you rely on HabitGPT for personalized support.

To avoid interruptions, you can set up automatic messages from your phone that “poke” HabitGPT and keep the chat alive.

What Automated Messages Should I send?

We’re going to set up automated messages based on specific triggers that already organically happen each day. Each message will ask HabitGPT for something, ensuring it stays active and keeps supporting you.

• Example Trigger: Time of Day = 8am daily
  Example Action: Send WhatApp message: “Ask me in 30 minutes if I’ve planned my top three priorities for the day.”

• Example Trigger: Connecting to Home Wi-Fi between hours of 4pm and 9pm
  Example Action: Send WhatApp message: “I just got home, remind me in 20 minutes to fill my waterbottle if I haven’t already”

• Example Trigger: Arriving at Work (location)
  Example Action: Send WhatApp message: “I just got to work. In 45 minutes, ask me to send a photo of my work to dos today.”

• Example Trigger: Turning Off Do Not Disturb
  Example Action: Send WhatApp message: “In 20 minutes, Check if I’ve started my morning routine.”

• Example Trigger: Starting Your Car (Connecting to CarPlay)
  Example Action: Send WhatApp message: “I just got in the car. In 10 minutes, send me something from my to do list that I could do as an errand or at a stoplight.”

These small nudges not only keep HabitGPT active but also help you stay consistent in building lasting habits.

How to Set Up Automated Messages

For iPhone Users

Use the Shortcuts app to create personal automations that send messages to HabitGPT, keeping the conversation alive.

1. Open the Shortcuts App:

   • Launch the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.

2. Create a Personal Automation:

   • Tap the "Automation" tab at the bottom.

   • Select "Create Personal Automation."

3. Choose a Trigger:

   • Pick a trigger for your automation:

     • Time of Day: Set a specific time (e.g., 9:00 AM daily).

     • Arrival: Choose a location (e.g., arriving home).

     • Wi-Fi: Select a specific Wi-Fi network connection.

4. Set Up the Action:

   • Tap "Add Action."

   • In the search bar, type "Send Message via WhatsApp" and select it.

   • In the "Recipient" field, enter +1 (415) 417-1698 (HabitGPT’s WhatsApp number).

   • In the "Message" field, type a prompt to keep the chat active (e.g., "Hi HabitGPT, checking in!").

5. Finalize the Automation:

   • Tap "Next."

   • Review the automation details.

   • Toggle off "Ask Before Running" to allow the automation to run automatically.

   • Tap "Done" to save.

For Android Users

Use the MacroDroid app to create macros that send messages to HabitGPT, ensuring continuous communication.

1. Install MacroDroid:

   • Download and install MacroDroid from the Google Play Store.

2. Create a New Macro:

   • Open MacroDroid.

   • Tap "Add Macro."

3. Set a Trigger:

   • Tap the "+" icon under "Triggers."

   • Choose a trigger:

     • Time Trigger: Set a specific time.

     • Location Trigger: Select a location.

     • Wi-Fi Trigger: Choose a Wi-Fi network.

4. Add an Action:

   • Tap the "+" icon under "Actions."

   • Select "Send WhatsApp Message."

   • Enter +1 (415) 417-1698 (HabitGPT’s WhatsApp number).

   • Type a message to keep the chat active (e.g., "Hello HabitGPT, just checking in!").

5. Configure Constraints (Optional):

   • Set conditions under which the macro should run (e.g., only when connected to a specific Wi-Fi).

6. Save the Macro:

   • Tap the checkmark to save.

   • Name your macro for easy identification.

Tips for Effective Automation:

• Message Content: Keep messages simple to ensure HabitGPT recognizes them as valid prompts.

• Frequency: Set automations at intervals that suit your routine without being intrusive.

• Testing: After setup, test the automation to confirm it works as intended.

By creating these automations, you can maintain an active chat with HabitGPT, ensuring you receive consistent support and reminders tailored to your needs.