WhatsApp Introduces Channels Feature to Take on Twitter With One-Way Broadcast

WhatsApp is one of the most popular Internet Messaging apps that allow users to communicate, share media, and much more. WhatsApp has been adding a plethora of features to its main app that has transformed users' experience. Now, the company has announced a new feature that will serve the same purpose as Twitter (to some extent). WhatsApp's new Channels feature is a new one-way broadcast that you can follow and receive updates.
WhatsApp is exploring microblogging options with its new Channels feature
The new Channel addition is part of WhatsApp's main app and it seems the company is aiming for a Twitter-like feed. The admins of the channels will have the option to share photos, text, stickers, and much more. You can follow these channels to receive updates regarding the latest trends, news, sports, and much more. The channels will provide one-way information which means that the admins will have a certain level of control.
Other than this, the admin's personal information like a phone number or photos will not be available for everyone to see. Seemingly, the admins will decide if they want to add a certain follower to the list. Potentially, once the request is approved, only then can you receive relevant updates. According to WhatsApp, Channels will serve as a reliable and secure way to receive important updates regarding a specific topic. With that said, admins will be able to block screenshots and restrict forward messages from the platform.

Channels can be created by individuals as well as Organizations. Individuals can share their interests or hobbies while organizations can share promotions of their upcoming products or services. The local authorities can also share updates regarding the weather, traffic, and additional details related to the environment. The platform will also come with a dedicated directory from where users can search the Channels that they are looking for. However, the platform also allows users to reach a Channel through invite links. In the end, it depends on the admins if they want to add a user to their list of followers.
The new Channels feature can be accessed from the new Updates tab. The company is keeping the feature separate from your chats which makes sense. Overall, the company seems to be delving into the microblogging category like Twitter. The company will begin the rollout of the feature from Columbia and Singapore. In the coming months, Channels will expand to additional regions.
Written by Ali Salman