WhatsApp is taking down every other channel by introducing a new feature. Check it out

Breaking Down WhatsApp Channels: The Next Level of Messaging

WhatsApp Channels is a recently introduced feature by the Meta-owned instant messaging platform, WhatsApp. It allows admins to send text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls to users who subscribe to their channels. Users can receive important updates and messages from businesses and individuals within WhatsApp. And it has enabled businesses to tap into a global audience and boost revenue by offering streamlined customer support, personalized promotions, and direct sales channels, fostering stronger customer relationships and driving higher conversions. Here's everything you need to know about this new private messaging tool.

What is WhatsApp channel and its features?

WhatsApp's new feature is a one-way broadcast tool designed for businesses and organizations. It enables them to send messages and updates to an unlimited number of WhatsApp followers. This functionality follows a similar feature that was introduced for Instagram by Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp. With the new update, users will find the Channels feature in the bottom tab labeled "Updates," which includes a searchable directory for discovering topics of interest. Channels can prove advantageous for influencers, businesses, and individuals seeking to share news, updates, and relevant information with their WhatsApp followers or customers.

WhatsApp new features respect your privacy and choice 

WhatsApp new features aka Channels prioritize privacy as they aim to become the most private broadcast service. The platform ensures the protection of personal information for both admins and Whatsapp users. As an admin, your phone number and profile photo will remain undisclosed to your WhatsApp followers. Similarly, following a channel will not expose your phone number to the admin or other users. WhatsApp emphasizes that the decision of whom to follow is entirely up to you, and it is treated with utmost privacy and confidentiality.

WhatsApp channel with a 30-day expiry 

WhatsApp Channels have a 30-day expiry for content storage, reflecting the platform's belief in non-permanence. Channel history is stored on servers for up to 30 days before automatic removal. WhatsApp intends to introduce features for faster disappearance of updates from follower devices. Admins have control over blocking screenshots and forwards, as well as managing channel visibility in the directory and choosing WhatsApp followers.

Wide Reach with a Different Encryption Approach

WhatsApp Channels prioritize reaching a broad audience, and therefore, they do not employ end-to-end encryption by default. This distinctive encryption approach ensures that channels can effectively reach a wide range of users while maintaining certain communication capabilities.

Control Over Channels

WhatsApp Channels provide admins with extensive control over their channels. Admins can determine the audience by deciding who can follow their channel and whether it appears in the directory. They also can block screenshots and forwards, giving them added control over content distribution and privacy.

Monetization Opportunities

WhatsApp will integrate its payment methods into the Channels feature, enabling creators to monetize their services and build their businesses. This integration allows admins to explore various revenue streams and capitalize on their channel's value. Additionally, WhatsApp will strategically include and promote selected channels in the directory to enhance visibility and increase awareness among users.

WhatsApp Channels Availability: Initial Launch in Singapore and Colombia, Expansion Planned

WhatsApp new feature will first be launched in Singapore and Colombia, where the platform will collaborate with prominent global voices and select organizations to build and refine the experience and it is expected to be launched soon in India. This initial phase aims to gather insights and adapt the feature. In the coming months, WhatsApp plans to expand its new features today to more countries worldwide and enable anyone to create their channel. Stay tuned for updates on the availability of Channels in your region.

How WhatsApp channels will work 

• Channels will be in a dedicated tab labeled "Updates" within WhatsApp, separate from regular chats.

• Admins cannot add WhatsApp followers to their channels, ensuring that users can control which channels they receive updates from.

• Privacy is a priority, with Channels aspiring to be the most private broadcast messaging product available.

• Channel history will only be stored for 30 days and automatically disappear afterward.

• Phone numbers and profile photos of channel admins will not be shared with WhatsApp followers.

• Following a channel will not expose your phone number to the admin or other WhatsApp followers.

  
  

Wrapping up 

WhatsApp Channels present a potent avenue for businesses and organizations to disseminate information to their WhatsApp followers and generate excitement around their latest offerings and services. This tool enables them to enhance their business growth by fostering direct communication and effortless engagement with their target audience.

For more updates on WhatsApp features and here is how to link multiple phones to your WhatsApp account. In line with the new WhatsApp feature, cloodot has also embraced the updates, enabling you to connect with your customers in a significantly faster and more efficient manner, reaching them 5X quicker. If you want to know more about how the cloodot Whatsapp channel feature can help you with customer interaction and manage your multiple customers with one number, tap on the link to learn more.