Sending an empty text message may seem simple, but there are actually a few different ways to go about it depending on the messaging platform you are using. The main options are sending a text with just spaces, sending an empty text file, or using special characters. Understanding the nuances of each method can ensure your blank message gets conveyed properly.
Sending a Text with Just Spaces
One straightforward way to send an empty text is to simply include spaces. For example, you could draft a text message with 5-10 spaces in a row. When the recipient opens the message, it will show a blank screen. This takes advantage of the fact that most messaging apps do not trim extra whitespace. So the spaces are preserved as blank characters.
However, there are a few caveats to this approach:
– It may not work in all apps. Some messaging platforms will automatically trim excess whitespace from messages.
– It can look messy. Though the message is technically blank, all the spaces may show up as blocks on some devices. This gives the impression of a glitch rather than an intentional empty text.
– Anyone can see the spaces. If the recipient copies and pastes the message, they will see the spaces you included to create the blank text.
Overall, this method is quick and straightforward. But it is not very polished and may not work universally across messaging platforms.
Sending an Empty Text File
A more sophisticated option is to send an empty text file. Many messaging apps allow you to attach files, including .txt files. To do this:
1. On your device, open a new text document. Immediately save it as an empty .txt file.
2. In your messaging app, locate the attachment option, usually depicted by a paperclip icon.
3. Select the empty .txt file to attach to the message.
4. Send the message.
When the recipient opens the message, they will see a blank text file attached. This ensures the message itself shows up empty.
The advantages of this method include:
– It works consistently across most messaging platforms.
– It looks clean, with no spaces or strange characters showing up.
– The recipient cannot see anything when they open the file.
The downside is it requires a few extra steps to generate and attach a file rather than just typing a message. Overall, this technique is more versatile than simply using spaces.
Using Special Characters
Some messaging platforms allow you to send special blank characters that will be invisible to the recipient. For example:
– On an iPhone, you can hold down the zero key to find an invisible Unicode character. Sending this blank character will mimic an empty message.
– On Android devices, you can find invisible characters in the symbols section of your keyboard options.
– Different apps may have built-in invisible characters as well.
The benefit here is that no spaces or files are needed. Simply inserting the right invisible character will make a message appear blank.
However, there are some cons with this method:
– It only works if the messaging platform supports that specific invisible character. So it is not universally reliable.
– The character may be revealed if the recipient copies and pastes the message.
– It can come across as glitchy if the app does not fully support the character.
This technique can work well in specific cases. But it requires using the right platforms and characters to ensure the message appears empty.
Examples of Sending Blank Messages
To better understand these techniques, let’s look at some examples of how you might send an empty text on popular messaging platforms:
iMessage (iPhone)
To send a blank iMessage to another iPhone user, open a new message and press the zero key while holding it down until the invisible character appears. Paste this into your message and send.
SMS Text
For a blank SMS text message, simply type 5-10 spaces in a row before sending your text. The spaces will deliver as blank characters.
On WhatsApp, open your keyboard options and select the symbols tab. Look for an invisible or blank character and insert it into your message. Send the message containing just the invisible symbol.
Facebook Messenger
Since Messenger allows file attachments, create a blank .txt file and attach it to your message. When sent, the message area itself will appear empty.
Slack
Slack automates trimming excess whitespace in messages. To send a blank Slack message, find an invisible Unicode character and paste it into your message.
Troubleshooting Issues
Despite these techniques, you may still encounter issues sending an empty text such as:
– Visible characters showing up instead of a blank message
– Platforms that block or truncate blank messages
– Recipients not receiving the message properly
Here are some troubleshooting tips if you have issues sending empty texts:
– Double check which blank character or method works best for the messaging app. Features may differ across platforms.
– Try switching between invisible characters, spaces, or empty files to see which one is most effective.
– If all else fails, add a single period or emoji character. While not completely blank, this will minimize the message content.
– Ensure your messaging app is up to date. Older versions may not handle white spaces or new Unicode as consistently.
– Ask the recipient if they are having issues viewing the blank message on their own device. The issue may be on their end.
Persistence and experimentation with the various approaches can typically resolve any empty text messaging problems. But it may require adjusting your approach per platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about sending blank text messages:
Why would I want to send an empty text message?
Some reasons you may want to send a blank text include:
– Messaging someone to get their attention without writing an actual message
– Indicating you accidentally messaged the wrong person
– Pranks or jokes relying on a “silent message”
– Avoiding sending content when only a notification is needed
What are the best apps for sending blank texts?
The most reliable apps for empty texts are iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger. All provide ways to insert invisible characters or attach blank files. SMS text messaging also usually delivers spaces as blank texts.
Is this considered spamming or abusive messaging?
Generally, occasionally sending empty messages to contacts for legitimate purposes is fine. But repeatedly sending blank texts to someone without context could be considered spam, especially if requested to stop. Always ensure the recipient is OK with receiving blank messages.
Can I get in trouble for sending too many blank texts?
Most messaging platforms have spam detection that blocks overuse of repetitive blank messages. You likely won’t face legal trouble, but could get blocked by recipients or flagged by apps for potential spam behavior if sending excessive empty texts.
What are the limits on how many blank messages I can send?
There are no definitive limits, but it’s best to not intentionally flood someone’s phone with dozens or hundreds of repetitive blank texts at once. Send them sparingly and only when truly needed. If unsure, limit yourself to 2-3 per day maximum and only with consent.
Conclusion
Sending a blank text message is easy once you know the tricks of each messaging app. Inserting white spaces, using special Unicode, and sending empty files can all produce empty texts. Stick to just a few blank messages at a time and troubleshoot any issues that arise. With the right approach, you can convey what needs to be said, even without saying anything at all.
While this covers the basics, technology is always evolving with new messaging options. So you may need to experiment to find what works best on the latest platforms. The key is being adaptable and persistent. An empty text can speak volumes if crafted correctly. Just be responsible and respect the recipient’s preferences when putting these blank messaging techniques to work.