WhatsApp Channels, a one-way broadcast tool for admins to send text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls, is now available worldwide.
WhatsApp Channels, initially launched in Singapore and Colombia, is now available globally. This feature allows admins to send one-way broadcasts to followers, including text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls.
The platform emphasizes user privacy by not revealing admins' phone numbers to followers, nor followers' numbers to admins or other followers. Channel join links can be shared publicly or privately.
Key features of WhatsApp Channels include:
- Enhanced Privacy: Personal phone numbers are protected for both admins and followers.
- Edit Options: Admins have the ability to edit updates for up to 30 days, after which they are permanently deleted from the servers.
- Searchable Directory: Users can find channels based on their interests, sports teams, local officials, and more. WhatsApp is also introducing new tools that filter channels based on your country.
- Updates Forwarding: Updates forwarded to chats include a link back to the channel so people can find out more.
Meta highlights that WhatsApp Channels is designed to be the most private broadcast service available. They are exploring further features, including allowing certain admins to be able to add other admins and more.
The global rollout includes new updates such as improved search functionality, custom reactions using emojis, and the ability for admins to allow anyone to join or require admin approval. WhatsApp continues to gather feedback to refine the Channels feature.