WhatsApp Channels launched in India: Here’s what they can do for you

WhatsApp has brought its Channels feature to our shores after having launched it back in June in select regions. Read on to find out what WhatsApp Channels are, what they can do for you, and how to create them.

What are WhatsApp Channels?

WhatsApp Channels, like Instagram’s Broadcast Channels, allow users to create one-way channels of communication with large groups. Within these channels, one can send anything from text messages to photos and videos, as well as stickers and polls. They can do so using both, their smartphones as well as laptops.

WhatsApp Channels are distinct from regular chats in the sense that the identities of the followers of a particular Channel remain confidential to all others following the same. Also, one’s phone number isn’t revealed to anyone either, whether to the admin or other followers.

The Channels one follows can be found in a new tab on the app called ‘Updates.’ Users can also find their contacts’ WhatsApp statuses here.

WhatsApp Channels also brings with it a feature called ‘Enhanced Directory,’ using which one can find channels to follow automatically filtered based on their country. Moreover, users also have the option to see new channels, as well as those that are most active or have the most followers.

ALSO READ: WhatsApp will soon let you filter group chats

Users in a channel have the option to react to messages using emojis. In addition to this, they can also forward updates from a channel to a chat, along with a backlink to the channel.

On the flip side, admins also have the option to block screenshots and forwards from their channels. They can also decide who can follow their channel as well as whether they want their channel to show up in the Enhanced Directory or not. Also, admins can edit their updates for a period of up to 30 days after they’ve been sent.

How to create a WhatsApp Channel

Here’s how one can create a WhatsApp channel.

1. Ensure WhatsApp on your device is updated to the latest version.

2. Open the WhatsApp application on your phone and go to the ‘Updates’ tab.

3. Tap on the ‘plus’ icon and then, on ‘New channel.’

4. Tap on the ‘Get started’ option, and follow the instructions on the on-screen prompts.

5. Give your channel a name, an icon and a description, about what your channel is.

6. Tap on ‘Create channel’, and that’s it, you’re all set!

The Channels feature was first introduced with Telegram messenger, and was used for a number of purposes including dissemination of news, promotion of brands and their products, as well as building communities which share a similar interest.