Abu Zar Mishwani
WhatsApp Channels, similar to Instagram Broadcast, were introduced in 150 countries in September 2023. These channels allow some users to easily share updates with a large audience on WhatsApp in a one-way broadcast.
On WhatsApp Channels, the channel owners have the ability to send messages, and everyone else (channel members) can only react to those messages. You can easily find channels created by celebrities, businesses, or content creators through a directory search. Additionally, there are reports that Channels will soon be able to use WhatsApp stickers.
WhatsApp is introducing a new beta update, as reported by WABetaInfo. This update enables Channel admins to share stickers with their followers. The feature is currently in a limited release, accessible to select beta testers.
The broader release for all users is expected in the coming days. With this update, admins can share not only static stickers but also animated and dynamic ones.
To see if you can share stickers on Channels, make sure your WhatsApp beta version is up-to-date. Simply go to your Channel tab and open the keyboard.
If you see the Stickers option next to the emoji keyboard, you have access to this feature. The report indicates that this functionality will gradually become available to more beta testers in the coming weeks. However, a report from Indian Express suggests that it is already accessible to all WhatsApp Channels users.
Within the initial seven weeks, WhatsApp Channels achieved over 500 million monthly active users, as mentioned in a message by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
You can find WhatsApp Channels in the Updates tab, visible on iOS and Android smartphones, alongside WhatsApp Status updates.
In WhatsApp Channels, messages lack end-to-end encryption protection. Only the Channel owners can post updates and messages, while Channel members or followers can react to them.
It’s important to note that all messages are visible in a Channel for 30 days from the time they were initially shared.