What is WhatsApp Channels, the latest feature launched by Meta

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.

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.

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.