Observed Signal · May 12, 2023 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
WhatsApp Tests Channels for Updates
WhatsApp is developing a feature called Channels that would let users share updates, news, events, and more with an unlimited follower base. Channel followers would not see the channel operator’s phone number, nor the operator’s name, profile picture, or bio, preserving privacy. The Status tab is planned to be renamed to 'Updates' and would include the user’s own status, contacts’ statuses, and all followed channels. The feature is still in development and is expected to launch to beta testers in upcoming updates, with a public release date currently unknown. The article also notes a potential link between Channels and a previously announced private newsletter tool, and mentions that Meta has a similar broadcast function called Channels on Instagram.
Technical Release on a major platform (Meta) introducing Channels-related functionality with privacy implications; high relevance to the ad/marketing ecosystem.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- WhatsApp is testing a feature named Channels to share updates with an unlimited number of followers.
- Channel followers cannot see the channel owner’s phone number; the owner’s name, profile picture, and bio remain hidden.
- The Status tab will be renamed to 'Updates' and include personal statuses, contact statuses, and followed channels.
- The feature is in development and planned for beta testers in upcoming updates; a public rollout date is unknown.
- Meta already has a Channels broadcast function on Instagram.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedRelated Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
WhatsApp tests moving Channels to Chats tab
According to WABetaInfo, Meta is internally testing the integration of WhatsApp Channels into the primary Chats tab, moving away from the Current tab where they are currently separated. Three different configurations are being tested: direct listing within chat history, a filtered view, or a dedicated folder. This shift breaks Meta's earlier promise of strict separation between private and commercial content, bringing monetization features like subscriptions and sponsored channels closer to personal chats. The Current tab may be replaced by a Contacts tab. Privacy protections remain unchanged.
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