Meta continues to enhance its instant messaging platform, frequently rolling out new features to enhance user experience. In its latest update, the company has unveiled an exciting addition to WhatsApp—introducing WhatsApp Channels, a groundbreaking feature that allows users to privately subscribe to individuals and organizations to receive vital updates directly within the app. [1]

Figure 1. Whatsapp channels feature.

Figure 1 shows Whatsapp channels feature. While the availability of Channels on WhatsApp is currently limited to Colombia and Singapore, Meta has assured users that it plans to expand its reach to more markets in the near future. As of now, residents of Singapore and Colombia are empowered to create their own channels, granting them a unique platform to engage with their audiences. [1]

WhatsApp Channels

A new tab called 'Updates' will be introduced in WhatsApp, where users can conveniently access their subscribed WhatsApp Channels alongside their chats and calls. Meta is also actively developing a search tool to enable users to discover channels based on various categories such as hobbies, sports teams, and local official updates, among others. Additionally, joining channels will be made effortless through invite links that can be shared across online platforms. [2]

While the specifics regarding the creation of WhatsApp Channels remain unclear, it is expected that both official and unofficial channels will coexist. Notable examples of official channels include renowned organizations like the World Health Organization and FC Barcelona, which are easily identifiable by the presence of a verified green tick, signifying their legitimacy. [2]

Drawing insights from Instagram Channels, it becomes evident that unofficial channels will also be prevalent, providing an opportunity for anyone to join and receive updates from a diverse range of sources. [2]

WhatsApp Channels privacy

To uphold user privacy, WhatsApp has implemented measures to conceal the phone numbers and profile photos of both the admin and followers from public view. However, unlike regular chats that are end-to-end encrypted, WhatsApp Channels will not benefit from the same level of encryption. [2]

Meta has announced that it will store channel history for a limited period of 30 days, and it is actively working on promptly removing updates from followers' devices. In an effort to prioritize security and privacy, Meta is also considering implementing end-to-end encryption for channels belonging to non-profit or health organizations. [2]

Given that admins hold control over their channels, they will be granted the ability to block screenshots and restrict message forwarding within the channel. Admins will also have the flexibility to manage their channel's followers, deciding who can follow and determining its visibility within the search directory. [2]

References:

1. https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/tech-news-technology/whatsapp-broadcast-launch-8652316/
2. https://www.91mobiles.com/hub/whatsapp-launches-telegram-like-channels/

Cite this article:

Hana M (2023), WhatsApp Channels - Your Ultimate Source for Instant Updates and Engaging Content, AnaTechmaz, pp.150