A capsule is a message you prepare now—text, photo, audio or video—to deliver later by a chosen date, when someone reaches a certain age, or if a serious event occurs. Capsules don’t replace a will, but they capture meaning, context and care that legal documents can’t.
Quick answer (2-minute guide)
- Capsules are for messages — birthdays, milestones, household know-how, “read-me-first” notes for an executor.
- Choose a release mode — on a date, at a recipient’s age, or if something serious happens.
- Don’t include legal directives or passwords — keep the will and nominations in place, use hints and locations instead.
- Keep it kind and clear — short, specific, and updatable beats long and overwhelming.
Release modes explained
| Mode | Best for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Date/time | Anniversaries and planned milestones | “Open on 18th birthday, 12 Oct 2035.” |
| Recipient age | Developmental moments | “Advice for starting uni at 18.” |
| If something happens | Executor guidance & family context | “Read-me-first” note about where originals are kept. |
What to record (and what to avoid)
- Good to include: values, traditions, practical how-tos (appliances, service schedules), introductions to trusted contacts, where originals are stored.
- Avoid: full credentials, inflammatory content, contradictions to your will or nominations, third-party private info without consent.
Privacy & safety
Use device locks and short auto-lock timeouts. Be careful with faces and addresses in photos/videos. Keep sensitive notes concise and avoid doxxing details. When children are recipients, share with care and future-proof tone and content.
Emotional impact & timing
Capsules land at emotional moments. Short messages often carry more weight. Consider the recipient’s age and context, and avoid using capsules to manage disputes or control choices.
How LifeVault helps
- Create a Capsule: record text, photo, audio or video; pick recipients and a release rule.
- Keep legal documents separate: store scans of wills/letters of wishes as documents; note original locations.
- Security: vault lock, SensitiveGate visuals, Android screenshot protection on sensitive screens.
- Right-time access: tag your executor or trusted contacts and control when they see what.
Related: DIY will vs lawyer • Letter of Wishes • Executor basics • Listing assets in a will
Mini-templates
- 18th birthday: “Today you’re 18. Three things I’ve learned…”
- If I’m in hospital: “Spare keys with [Name]. Medications list in the kitchen drawer.”
- First day of school: “Lunchbox trick: freeze yoghurt pouches overnight.”
- Executor quick start: “Original will with [Firm]. Policy numbers inside LifeVault under Assets.”
- House know-how: “Water shutoff is behind the laundry door, labelled blue.”
FAQs
Is a capsule legally binding like a will?
No. It’s for messages and guidance only. Keep your legal arrangements in proper documents.
Can I attach videos?
Yes—record and upload short clips for milestones or instructions.
Can I edit or delete a capsule?
Yes, update as life changes so messages stay relevant.
Should I put passwords in capsules?
No. Use hints or a note about where secured information is stored.