WhatsApp announces new features in message sending channels

WhatsApp has made some changes to Channels, a tool that allows one-way messaging to be sent to thousands of participants simultaneously. As the platform announced, administrators will have more options in the new update available now.

Read more: WhatsApp Spy Mode: How to Read Messages Without Leaving a Trace

Whoever controls a massive message distribution channel can now choose up to 16 administrators, as well as send audio recordings and create polls.

The first appearance of the amendments takes place on the eve of the electoral period in Brazil. During the 2022 elections, Meta (the company that owns WhatsApp) postponed the launch of Communities, a similar feature that allows sending messages to closed groups of up to 5,000 people, on the recommendation of the Federal Public Ministry.

Channels actually allowed links, texts, photos and videos to be sent to any number of users, a function very similar to Telegram.

“Channels are public, meaning anyone can discover, follow, and view your channel. Due to the public nature and unlimited size of channel audiences, channel content will be visible to any user across WhatsApp,” the company explains in its privacy policy.

New features for WhatsApp channels

The company announced the launch of three main features: voice messages, polls, and sharing status cards (similar to Instagram Stories). To use the latter, simply press “Refresh,” choose “Forwarding” and then “My Status.”

A Multi-Admins option is also available, which increases the number of administrators who can manage channel updates to up to 16.

The invitation can be directed to any contact or follower of the channel owner. After acceptance, the new administrator will be able to perform all activities applicable to the other, such as creating, editing, and deleting updates. However, only the owner is allowed to delete the channel.