BNR – Meta intends to launch Channels, a new broadcast feature for its WhatsApp messaging app.
On Thursday, the social media company described the new Channels feature as a “private broadcast service.” Organisations and individuals can use this feature to deliver messages and announcements to subscribers that are separate from interpersonal discussions.
Administrators that manage a WhatsApp channel can distribute text, photographs, videos, stickers, and surveys to their subscribers. They will be prevented from adding subscribers to their channels. Followers will also be unable to respond to the messages.
Messages will be stored in the channels for 30 days before being erased.
WhatsApp Channels to Revolutionise Messaging
Channels, unlike traditional WhatsApp communications, will not employ end-to-end encryption, according to a blog post by WhatsApp.
This is done in order for them to “reach a wide audience.”
WhatsApp also stated that end-to-end encrypted channels may be introduced in the future for NGOs or health groups who wish to safeguard their conversations.
Users of WhatsApp will soon be able to search for Channels they want to become members of in a search index.
According to WhatsApp, the tab will be distinct from your conversations tab with family, friends, and communities. The app business intends to allow anybody to build a WhatsApp channel in the future.
In 2014, Meta, then known as Facebook, bought WhatsApp for $19 billion.
Monetisation and Future Potential
WhatsApp, according to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, will be the “next chapter” of the social media firm.
Although Meta generates the majority of its billions of dollars in yearly earnings from web advertising, it has so far resisted putting advertisements on WhatsApp in the same way it does on Facebook and Instagram.
Instead, Meta has promoted business-messaging services as a means of monetising WhatsApp. The platform aims to provide more engaging methods for businesses to connect with users.
According to Meta, “There is an opportunity to support admins with a way for them to build a business around their channel.”
