Mark Zuckerberg Meta has borrowed from the rival messaging Telegram app in launching a Channels feature on WhatsApp.
However, unlike channels on Telegram that show up on the app’s main page, WhatsApp’s channel announcements will appear in a new tab called Updates. Currently, channels on WhatsApp will be available for use by entities such as NGOs, medical research institutions and fact-checking bodies.
Messages on WhatsApp Channels to Disappear After 30 Days
Administrators of the WhatsApp channels can send text, photos, videos, stickers and even polls.
However, the communication will be one-way. Users will have the ability to join the channels through traditional invite links. WhatsApp plans on adding a directory for users to find channels for hobbies, sports teams and local officials.
Messages on the channels will be deleted after 30 days, and WhatsApp will not keep a record of them.
WhatsApp Channels to First Roll Out in Singapore and Colombia
The channels feature will initially be available to WhatsApp users in Singapore and Colombia.
Mark Zuckerberg said:
Today we’re announcing WhatsApp Channels — a private way to follow people and organizations that matter to you, right within WhatsApp. We are starting in Singapore and Colombia, but will roll out to everyone later this year.
We’re building Channels to be the most private way to communicate. As a channel admin, your phone number won’t be shown to followers, and following a channel won’t show that to the admin or others following the channel either.
Early adopters include the Singapore Heart Foundation and fact-checker Colombia Check. Other organizations that have expressed interest include International Rescue Committee (IRC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and popular sports teams such as FC Barcelona and Manchester City.
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