WhatsApp Channels will function as a one-way broadcast tool allowing admins to send photos, texts, videos, stickers, and polls.
Facebook parent Meta (NASDAQ: FB) has recently confirmed that it will soon debut its broadcasting feature Channels for its most-popular messaging service WhatsApp.
Speaking on the development on Thursday, June 8, Meta said that the new Channels feature is similar to a “private broadcast service” wherein individuals and organizations can send messages as well as updates to followers which are different from the kinds of interpersonal communications that happen between WhatsApp users.
Channels will function as a one-way broadcast tool allowing admins to send photos, texts, videos, stickers, and polls. Besides, Channels will come with a searchable directory wherein users can find their hobbies, sports team, updates, and much more.
Also, the Channels admins won’t be able to able to add followers to their channels. They can store messages only for a period of 30 days before being deleted automatically.
Another thing that users need to note Channels won’t come with end-to-end encryption in order to “reach a wide audience” said WhatsApp. However, the messaging platform added that they might bring end-to-end encrypted Channels eventually in the future. But WhatsApp will keep this facility limited to nonprofits or health organizations that need to keep their communication secure.
WhatsApp will eventually enable users to find Channels they want to join in a searchable directory. Users will be able to access the Channels they follow through a new “Updates” tab. WhatsApp stated that the tab will be “separate from your chats with family, friends, and communities”.
Meta to Debut Channels with Various Groups
WhatsApp stated that it’s already working with various groups and nonprofits such as Colombia Check and Singapore Heart Foundation to debut Channels. They are planning for a broader launch in other parts of the world. In the official blog post, WhatsApp noted:
“To kick off Channels, we’re excited to work with leading global voices and select organizations in Colombia and Singapore, where Channels will first be available, to build, learn, and adapt the experience. We’ll bring Channels to more countries and the ability for anyone to create a channel over the coming months.”
Eventually, WhatsApp will allow everyone to create a WhatsApp channel. Some of its other launch partners include the International Rescue Committee and the World Health Organization. Meta also said that “there is an opportunity to support admins with a way for them to build a business around their channel using our expanding payment services as well as the ability to promote certain channels in the directory to help increase awareness”.
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