Faced with Telegram channels, WhatsApp draws its chat channels

This is clearly to face Telegram, whose popularity is based on a system of channels, private or public, whose sulphurous reputation is well established. WhatsApp, which is already trying to walk on the flowerbeds of social networks (with its statutes), therefore invites itself on that of the channels, baptized in its universe the “chat channels”. “The time has come to launch a simple, reliable and private distribution tool”tackles the application

The channels will be accessible in a tab called “News”, separate from private conversations. The function is obviously in beta phase, WhatsApp indicating that it is considering the possibility of offering end-to-end encryption of channels or even providing channel managers with ways to monetize them. Meta is more clear about the security options of its service, ensuring that the contact details of channel administrators will not be shown to their subscribers, nor those of subscribers to administrators or other members of the same channel. Channel managers will be able to prohibit screenshots in their thread, to prevent the distribution of their content. “We are committed to creating the most private streaming service in the world”agrees Meta, which does not mention more tools to prevent the peddling of false information.

Inaugurated in Colombia and Singapore, which are therefore test markets for the feature – with no specific launch date – the Whatsapp chat channels will be offered “to other countries in the coming months”. Meta has already announced the names of the first partners, such as the WHO, the International Rescue Committee and, on the sporting side, FC Barcelona and Manchester United.