Bridging the gap between users and organizations, WhatsApp has announced the global launch of its innovative feature, ‘Channels’. In an effort to compete with other messaging platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp’s Channels allows users to send messages to an unlimited number of participants, creating an avenue for mass information transmission. While it is not available to all users yet, the feature will soon be accessible to anyone with a WhatsApp account.

The Channels feature is separate from regular conversations and can be found under a tab labeled ‘Updates’. Here, users can browse various channels and follow those of interest. However, other contacts will not be able to see which channels a user is following, ensuring privacy for individuals. WhatsApp assures the protection of personal information for both administrators and followers, adding another layer of security to its platform.

The Channels feature has already been launched in 150 countries, opening new lines of communication across the globe. Users can find and follow channels, which are automatically sorted based on their country. To enhance user interaction, the feature allows users to react to messages using emojis, with a count of total reactions available. WhatsApp ensures that followers will not see how others have reacted, maintaining an individual’s privacy. Additionally, any update forwarded to a conversation or group will include a link to the corresponding channel, allowing users to trace back the source of information.

Promotion of the new feature is already underway with celebrities on social media taking the lead. For instance, TV presenter Luciano Huck posted a video inviting his followers to participate in his broadcast line. WhatsApp plans to extend the feature to all users and continue to improve it based on user feedback. As the feature expands, it is expected to transform the way users interact with mass transmissions of information, making WhatsApp not just a messaging platform, but a comprehensive communication tool.