WhatsApp is making a major update to its app. The channels previously only available in a few countries are now being incorporated into Messenger worldwide. That changes with this.
WhatsApp now allows you to follow organizations and companies in Messenger via channels. (Source: WhatsApp)
The messenger WhatsApp is now rolling out its new “Channels” function worldwide. Previously, these were only available in Singapore and Colombia as well as Egypt, Chile, Malaysia, Morocco, Ukraine, Kenya and Peru. The function will now be added to the app in over 150 countries – including Germany.
A channel on WhatsApp represents a new way for organizations, companies or people to get in touch with several people at the same time. In contrast to groups or communities, the options for interaction here are limited. You can only react to messages in the channel with emojis. You can think of a WhatsApp channel more like a newsletter.
Status tab is replaced by “Updates”.
To view news in a channel, you must subscribe to it. You can see all the channels available in Germany in a directory on WhatsApp. In addition to WhatsApp and Mark Zuckerberg, Borussia Dortmund and Correctiv will also operate a WhatsApp channel in this country. By the way, messages published in a WhatsApp channel are saved for 30 days.
You won’t find your subscribed channels in the chat tab, but under the “Updates” tab, which used to be called “Status”. In this new area you can now view both status messages and messages from subscribed channels.
WhatsApp Channels is now being rolled out worldwide. The channels are also set to launch in Germany soon. (Source: WhatsApp)
Waiting list for new function opened
If you don’t see the channels yet, you can be put on a waiting list for the function to be activated. Naturally, it takes several weeks before such comprehensive changes to WhatsApp reach everyone. You cannot currently open your own channel via the app. WhatsApp promises that this function will be available soon.
Another innovation can also be seen in the press photo published by WhatsApp. On Android phones, the navigation bar will move to the bottom like in the iPhone app. This is the harbinger of a new WhatsApp design.
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