WhatsApp, the world’s most popular chat app, is embracing a new feature called Channels, which brings a different kind of messaging experience to its platform. Owned by Meta, WhatsApp describes Channels as “a private way to follow what matters,” catering to one-to-many broadcasts rather than individual conversations. This move seems reminiscent of Facebook, introducing a Twitter-like feed without the clutter of metrics and reply threads.
So, what exactly is a channel? Think of it as a Twitter feed tailored for WhatsApp. Recognizing the demand from governments, transit agencies, brands, and others seeking an alternative platform for sharing important updates, WhatsApp positions Channels as the ideal replacement. Additionally, Channels serves as a creator tool, allowing users with an audience to share various content formats, such as text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls. WhatsApp also plans to incorporate payment and monetization services into Channels.
Privacy is a key aspect of the Channels experience. WhatsApp ensures that channel admin information remains confidential, and the app retains only 30 days’ worth of a channel’s history. Admins have the ability to block screenshots and forward them to maintain the channel’s integrity. While Channels are not end-to-end encrypted, WhatsApp is exploring the possibility of implementing encryption for certain channels in the future.
Introducing Channels is a logical step for WhatsApp. Similar features exist on platforms like Telegram and Instagram, called Channels and broadcast channels, respectively. WhatsApp aims to create a seamless experience for users by integrating this kind of information into its messaging app, as receiving updates on air quality or train statuses feels more natural within a messaging environment than on a platform like Twitter.
Taking a broader perspective, WhatsApp is evolving beyond being solely a messaging app. Recent updates have allowed users to utilize one account on multiple phones, introduced features like private newsletters and a new username system, integrated polls, and shopping capabilities, revamped the Status system, enhanced group chats, and more. Channels is the latest endeavor by WhatsApp to bridge the gap between messaging and social media.
Initially, Channels will launch with select global organizations and specific entities in Colombia and Singapore. The feature will only be available in these two countries, with plans to expand to more nations and enable channel creation for additional users in the coming months. While WhatsApp remains primarily a messaging app used by billions worldwide, its aspirations for growth and monetization drive the company to explore ways to become a comprehensive super app encompassing social media functionalities.
