Exploring WhatsApp Channels: A New Way to Connect Anonymously

Politics, News Sept. 15, 2023, 2:38 p.m.

WhatsApp Channels introduce a Facebook-like feature, allowing users to follow organizations, creators, and communities discreetly. Messages auto-delete after 30 days, with global rollout in progress.

WhatsApp is no stranger to introducing new features and enhancements to its platform, and one such addition that has been in extensive testing is WhatsApp Channels. This feature is now making its way to a wider audience, and we've compiled all the essential information you need to understand what Channels are and how they function.

WhatsApp Channels function somewhat akin to following a page on Facebook rather than being connected as "Friends" with an individual user. Channels offer you the opportunity to subscribe to updates from various organizations, content creators, and communities without revealing your subscription status to others.

For instance, you could opt to follow the Liverpool FC Channel (if it exists) to receive updates from the football club, with the frequency of updates determined by the Channel's administrators. Additionally, there may be Channels available for local supporters' groups, offering a more localized experience.

Once WhatsApp Channels become available in your region, you can access a directory of Channels to join. You can filter these Channels based on your location, or you can choose not to use location-based filtering, depending on your preferences.

When you join a WhatsApp Channel, the Channel's administrators will receive a notification, but they won't gain access to your personal phone number or details. Subsequently, you will receive new messages whenever the administrators post in the Channel. These messages will appear in a dedicated tab at the bottom of WhatsApp called "Updates."

You have the flexibility to review these posts at your convenience, and you can interact with them using emojis. However, your precise reactions will remain private, even if you share the same Channel with your contacts.

It's important to note that messages, images, and other posts in WhatsApp Channels will automatically disappear after 30 days. Furthermore, administrators have the option to restrict the forwarding of messages or files to maintain tighter control over the content within Channels.

WhatsApp Channels has been gradually expanding its availability worldwide. It commenced with limited testing in regions like Colombia and Singapore but is now confirmed to be launching globally. As with most major WhatsApp updates, the timing of access to this feature may vary for users. To ensure you're up to date, make sure to keep your app regularly updated and keep an eye out for the new "Updates" tab at the bottom of the interface, which serves as an indicator that your app now includes WhatsApp Channels.