Messaging service WhatsApp is introducing Channels, a new Telegram-like broadcast tool that lets brands, organizations, and admins create channels where they can send texts, photos, videos, stickers, and polls to other members.
According to a blog post, WhatsApp is also building a directory for users to find channels they may want to follow. Channel invite links may be sent via chat, e-mails, or links posted online.
WhatsApp is also protecting personal information by hiding a user’s phone number and profile photo from the admin and other members of a channel. However, channel updates won’t be end-to-end encrypted as its goal is to reach a wider audience.
“We do think there are some cases where end-to-end encrypted channels to a limited audience might make sense, such as a non-profit or health organization, and we’re exploring this as a future option as well,” the company wrote.
Channel updates will also last up to 30 days before being erased from channel history, and admins will have the option to block screenshots and forwards from their channel.
WhatsApp’s Channel feature will be available to select organizations in Colombia and Singapore starting today. Other countries will be able to use the tool “over the coming months.”
The Meta-owned messaging app is the second platform under the tech giant to incorporate a Channels feature. Last February, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg introduced Instagram Broadcast Channels, a new hub for content creators to share updates with their channel subscribers.
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