tech
Brazil caught up in craze for whistling-only WhatsApp groups
Some chats can get up to 600 voice notes a day and reach the 1,024-member limit in less than 24 hours
TL;DR
- WhatsApp groups in Brazil have a strict rule: only whistling voice notes are permitted; typing and speaking lead to removal.
- These groups are attracting people of all ages and professions, with some receiving up to 600 voice notes daily.
- Popular whistling performances are gaining significant traction on TikTok.
- New groups are forming daily and often reach their 1,024-member limit within 24 hours.
- While most efforts are simple, some members create elaborate whistling performances.
- The trend's origin is unclear, but early TikTok posts and Google Trends data point to mid-April.
- Some groups require members to whistle at least once a day to remain active.
- While many join for fun, some appear to be addicted to whistling.
- The craze has inspired other niche groups focused on imitating animal sounds or sharing photos of specific car colors.
- Experts view this trend as a modern iteration of ephemeral online communities and pop culture phenomena.