WhatsApp Channels, a one-way broadcast tool for admins to send text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls, is now available globally.
WhatsApp Channels, which allows admins to send one-way broadcasts of text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls, is now available globally. This feature aims to provide a private way to follow topics of interest.
Key features of WhatsApp Channels include:
- Enhanced Privacy: Phone numbers of admins and followers are hidden.
- Choice and Control: Users can decide which channels to follow and discover new channels through a searchable directory with filters based on country.
- Relevant Information: Channels will display content for 30 days, and admins can choose to block screenshots and forwards. WhatsApp also plans to enable admins to create polls and more.
WhatsApp also emphasizes safety by providing tools for admins to control who can follow their channel and what content is visible. Reporting and review tools are in place to address harmful content. Channels are not end-to-end encrypted by default, but WhatsApp is exploring this option for select channels in the future.
Following a launch in Singapore and Colombia, Channels is now rolling out globally with new improvements, and is expected to become widely available in the coming weeks.