WhatsApp has introduced a brand new feature, Channels, worldwide including India.
What is it?
It is a way for celebs and other prominent personalities to set up channels to communicate with users that follow them.
They, or administrators will be able to share text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls while safeguarding the privacy of both administrators and followers.
“We’re excited to share the news that we’re launching WhatsApp Channels in India and over 150 countries. WhatsApp Channels are a one-way broadcast tool and deliver a private way to receive updates from people and organisations that matter to you, right within WhatsApp,” says the official statement.
Where to find it
These are separate from chats and who the user follows will not be visible to others.
Users can find the feature in a dedicated tab called “Updates”.
It has released the following updates-
Enhanced Directory
This allows users to find channels to follow. They are automatically filtered based on your country.
You can also view channels that are new, most active, and popular based on the number of followers.
Reactions
You can give feedback and react using emojis. This will not be shown to followers.
Editing
Admins or heads of the channels will be able to make changes to their Updates for up to 30 days after which it will be automatically deleted in order to avoid buildup of messages in channels.
Forwarding
An update from a channel can be forwarded to chats or groups. It will contain a link back to the channel so people can find out more.
For creators or admins
WhatsApp is giving admins control over who can follow their channel.
They can also choose whether they want their channel to be searchable in the directory.
Do note that channels are not end-to-end encrypted, since the intention is to reach a wide audience.
Going forward
Whatsapp said that it will continue to add more features and expand Channels based on user feedback.
Over the coming months it will also make it possible for any user to create a channel.
It has set up the official WhatsApp Channel to keep users updated on developments to the app.
