What is WhatsApp Channels, the latest feature launched by Meta

Meta says WhatsApp Channels is “a private way for people to receive updates that matter to them, right within WhatsApp.” We explain how this new feature works, and how you can join it.

Although WhatsApp has begun rolling out the feature, it isn’t available to everyone yet. (Photo: Meta)

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In the week since its launch in India, WhatsApp Channels, a new feature by Meta, is gaining popularity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Channels on Tuesday, and by Wednesday, had over a million followers. According to Meta, Katrina Kaif, Akshay Kumar, the Indian Cricket team, Diljit Dosanjh, and Vijay Deverakonda are among some Indian celebrities to launch their WhatsApp Channels.

What is WhatsApp Channels?

Meta says WhatsApp Channels is “a private way for people to receive updates that matter to them, right within WhatsApp.” While WhatsApp is a popular messaging tool, the latest feature aims to expand the platform’s use case, as it lets users follow updates from people and organisations they are interested in without leaving the app.

The feature is essentially a one-way broadcast tool that will share updates on a new tab called Updates, which is separate from the users’ chats. It is to be noted that the former Status tab has been entirely replaced by Updates. However, WhatsApp shows the circular Status updates on top of the Updates page.

Meta has said that it will roll out WhatsApp Channels over the next few weeks in over 150 countries, including India. Users will be able to follow channels that are automatically filtered based on their country. They can search channels by name or category. Users will also be able to view channels that are new and popular based on followers, and based on how active they are.

Is WhatsApp Channels safe to use?

Meta claims its aim is to “build the most private broadcast service available”. The company has said the personal information of both admins and followers is protected and who people choose to follow is private. Channel followers’ phone number and profile image will not be shown to the admin or other followers.

Updates shared on a channel will be saved for only 30 days.

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Admins will have the ability to block screenshots and forwards from their channel. The platform has also made it possible for admins to decide who can follow their channel and if they want their channel to be visible in the directory.

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Who can create a WhatsApp Channel?

Although WhatsApp has begun rolling out the feature, it isn’t available to everyone yet. For now, WhatsApp wants you to join a waitlist and it will notify you whenever WhatsApp Channels are available to you.

One can share text, images, videos, stickers, and links on their channel, and followers can use emojis to react. Although some features are similar to WhatsApp, it is to be noted that channel updates are one-way broadcasts and not conversations.

How to create a WhatsApp Channel?

After Meta makes WhatsApp Channels available to you, head to the Updates tab and tap on the plus sign opposite to Channels. Select Create Channel, click Continue, and tap through the on-screen prompts. Add a Channel name, which you can change anytime. Add a channel description and icon, and click on Create Channel.

A lot of iPhone users may not be able to see the Updates tab on their WhatsApp even after updating their devices to iOS 17. In that case, restarting the device is recommended.

Bijin Jose

Bijin Jose serves as an Assistant Editor at Indian Express Online in New Delhi. A seasoned technology journalist with a diverse portfolio, he brings over a decade of experience in the media industry to his coverage of the evolving digital landscape and emerging technologies. Experience & Career Bijin commenced his journalistic journey in 2013 as a citizen journalist with The Times of India. His career trajectory includes significant tenures at prestigious media organizations including India Today Digital and The Economic Times. This diverse professional background, ranging from legacy print institutions to dynamic digital platforms, culminated in his current leadership role at The Indian Express, where he helps shape the publication's technology narrative. Expertise & Focus Areas Bijin has transitioned from general reporting to a specialized focus on the intersection of technology and humanity. His key areas of expertise include: Artificial Intelligence: deeply tracking developments in AI, providing nuanced perspectives on its ethical,industrial, and societal implications. Tech Commentary: moving beyond product specifications to analyze how technology reshapes daily life. Diverse Reporting Foundation: draws upon a robust background in crime reporting and cultural features to bring a human-centric approach to technical storytelling. Authoritativeness & Trust Bijin’s editorial voice is informed by a strong academic foundation, holding a Bachelor of Arts in English from Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara, and a Master of Arts in English Literature. This literary background enables him to deconstruct complex technical jargon into accessible, compelling narratives. His steady progression through India’s top newsrooms underscores his reputation for editorial rigor and reliable journalism. Find all stories by Bijin Jose here ... Read More