WhatsApp, one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms, has introduced a new feature that is changing the way users interact with their favorite organizations and individuals – WhatsApp Channels. These channels offer a unique way to receive updates without revealing your phone number to the channel administrators or other followers. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to discover, follow, and effectively use WhatsApp Channels.
Discovering Interesting WhatsApp Channels
WhatsApp Channels made their debut in June 2023, and since then, they have garnered significant attention. However, it’s essential to note that this feature is now available in 150 countries as of september 2023, including Singapore, Colombia, Ukraine, Chile, Malaysia, Egypt, Peru, Kenya, and Morocco. To access WhatsApp Channels, ensure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
Here’s how you can discover intriguing WhatsApp Channels:
- Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device.
- Access Updates: In WhatsApp, you’ll find an “Updates” section, which was formerly known as “Status.” Tap on it to proceed.
- Find Channels: Within the Updates tab, look for “See all” adjacent to “Find channels.” If you haven’t followed any channels yet, you can also select the “Find Channels” button at the bottom. This will take you to a dedicated directory page where various channels are listed.
- Browse and Search: Browse through the list to find a channel that piques your interest. Channels are typically sorted by popularity by default, but you can change the sorting order by tapping the “Sort” button in the top right corner. Additionally, you can use the “Search” button at the top to search for specific channels.
While the searchable directory is a useful tool, it’s important to note that not all channels may appear there. WhatsApp provides channel administrators with the option to decide whether their channel should be discoverable in the directory.
Following a WhatsApp Channel
Once you’ve discovered a WhatsApp Channel that captures your interest, the next step is to follow it. Here’s how you can get started:
- Select WhatsApp’s Updates Tab: Navigate to the Updates tab within WhatsApp.
- Access Channels Directory: Tap the “Find Channels” button or “See all” at the bottom to access the channels directory page.
- Follow the Channel: Locate the channel you wish to follow and tap the Plus (+) button to start following it. Alternatively, you can preview a channel’s updates by tapping its name and then selecting “Follow” in the top right corner.
Unfollowing a WhatsApp Channel
WhatsApp Channels can be a great source of updates, but following too many channels can lead to an inundation of messages. To manage your channels and prevent excessive notifications, you can mute or unfollow channels. Here’s how to unfollow a WhatsApp Channel:
- Go to the Updates Tab: Navigate to the Updates tab within WhatsApp.
- Select the Channel: Choose the channel you want to unfollow from your list.
- Unfollow: Tap the three-dot icon located in the top right corner of the channel’s chat. From the options provided, select “Unfollow.”
WhatsApp will promptly unfollow the channel, removing it from your list of followed channels in the Updates tab.
Leveraging WhatsApp Channels for Updates
WhatsApp Channels offer a convenient way to stay informed about your favorite organizations and individuals. Whether it’s tracking your favorite sports team’s progress, receiving updates from a local organization, or staying informed about official announcements, WhatsApp Channels provide a seamless alternative to traditional social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
Furthermore, one of the standout features of WhatsApp Channels is the preservation of your phone number’s privacy. This added layer of privacy makes WhatsApp Channels an attractive option, particularly when compared to joining WhatsApp groups or communities.
For businesses, WhatsApp Channels offer a valuable opportunity to build a following and facilitate communication with potential customers. By leveraging this feature, businesses can streamline their outreach efforts and engage with their audience in a more personalized manner.
In conclusion, WhatsApp Channels have introduced a novel way to receive updates within the WhatsApp ecosystem while preserving user privacy. Whether you’re a casual user or a business owner, exploring and following WhatsApp Channels can enhance your messaging experience and keep you well-informed.