WhatsApp globally launches Channels, a one-way broadcast tool for admins to send text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls.
WhatsApp has officially launched Channels globally, expanding the feature after its initial introduction in select countries. Channels provides a private way to follow updates from people and organizations, differing from chats as it's a one-way broadcast tool for admins to send text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls.
The platform emphasizes user privacy, ensuring that admins' phone numbers are not revealed to followers and vice versa. Follower lists remain private. WhatsApp aims to create the most private broadcast service available.
Key features include:
- Improved Directory: Users can find channels to follow through a searchable directory, with options based on country, newness, and popularity.
- Updates from Channels: A new 'Updates' tab replaces the 'Status' tab, housing both Status updates and Channels users choose to follow.
- Privacy Controls: Admins can decide who can follow their channel and whether it's discoverable in the directory.
WhatsApp is also allowing admins to choose if they want their channel to be discoverable in the directory, further enhancing privacy. Looking ahead, WhatsApp plans to expand Channels and introduce new features based on user feedback. The global rollout is underway and will be available to all users in the coming weeks.