WhatsApp working on ‘channels’, a new tool to broadcast information

The feature is being developed for WhatsApp on both iOS and Android.

Published on: Apr 24, 2023, 11:21:45 IST

By HT News Desk, New Delhi

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WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new ‘one-to-many’ tool to broadcast information. This is according to WhatsApp news tracker WABetaInfo, which noted that the Meta-owned platform is developing the said feature for both iOS and Android.

FILE - This Feb. 19, 2014, file photo, shows WhatsApp app icon on a smartphone in New York. (AP)

Also Read: Zuckerberg announces WhatsApp's new ‘Keep In Chat’ feature

The tool, as per WABetaInfo, is called ‘channels.’

What is ‘channels’?

Giving more details about this feature, the website described channels as a 'private tool' where phone numbers, as well as information about users joining a channel, would be kept hidden. Also, while the messages received in channels would not be end-to-end encrypted, it would not affect the end-to-end encryption of private messaging, which continues to be end-to-end encrypted.

WhatsApp 'channels' (Image courtesy: WABetaInfo)

Also, WhatsApp plans to rename the Status tab to ‘Updates’ as channels would also be listed within this section of the app, the report said.

What are the features of ‘channels’?

It is likely to have these abilities, and more:

(1.) Users would have control over which channels they want to subscribe to, and no one would be able to see who all a user follows.

(2.) People would not get auto-subscribed to channels.

(3.) It would support handles, allowing you to search for a specific WhatsApp channel by simply entering its username.

Availability

Currently under development, the feature will be released in a future update of the instant messaging service.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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