WhatsApp, the popular messaging app owned by Facebook, has introduced a new feature called channel in India, where users can create one-way broadcast channels and share updates with their followers. The feature is similar to the Instagram broadcast channel feature, but with more privacy and control.
According to WhatsApp, the channel feature is designed to help users connect with their favorite celebrities, sports teams, artists, and creators in a more personal way. Users can find channels in a new tab called Updates on WhatsApp, where they can also see status updates from their contacts. Users can follow channels through invitation links or by searching in a directory. They can also react to the updates using emoji, but their personal information will not be visible to other followers or the channel admin.
WhatsApp Channel feature- update
Some of the first channels to launch in India include Katrina Kaif, Diljit Dosanjh, Vijay Deverakonda, and the Indian Cricket Team. These channels have already attracted millions of followers who can get exclusive content and updates from their idols.
However, not everyone is happy with the new feature. Some users have expressed their dissatisfaction and annoyance with the channel update, saying that it is unnecessary and intrusive. They complain that the Updates tab is cluttered with too many channels that they are not interested in, and that they prefer to see status updates from their friends and family. They also worry that the channel feature will make WhatsApp more like a social media platform than a messaging app, and that it will compromise their privacy and security.
Users Reactions
One user said: “I don’t like this channel update at all. It’s irritating and distracting. I don’t want to see random channels in my WhatsApp. I just want to chat with my contacts and see their status updates. How can I remove this feature?”
Another user said: “This channel update is a bad idea. It’s a way for WhatsApp to collect more data from us and sell it to advertisers. It’s also a way for them to push their agenda and influence our opinions. I don’t trust WhatsApp anymore.”
On the other hand, some users have welcomed the new feature and praised it for its innovation and convenience. They say that the channel feature is a great way to stay updated and entertained by their favorite personalities and topics. They also appreciate the privacy and control that the channel feature offers, as they can choose which channels to follow and unfollow, and how to react to the updates.
One user said: “I love this channel update. It’s so cool and fun. I can follow my favorite celebrities and get exclusive content from them. I can also discover new channels that match my interests. It’s like having a mini TV on my WhatsApp.”
Another user said: “This channel update is a good idea. It’s a way for WhatsApp to provide more value and variety to us and keep us engaged. It’s also a way for them to support creators and artists who can reach more audiences and fans. I support WhatsApp for this.”
How to remove WhatsApp update of channel in status
If you find the channel update irritating and want to remove the channel feature from your WhatsApp, you have two options:
- You can delete your own channel if you have created one. To do this, you need to go to the Updates tab and tap on your channel name. Then, tap on Delete channel > Delete. Enter your phone number to confirm and tap Delete again. You will see a message saying “You deleted your channel” in the Updates tab.
- You can uninstall the WhatsApp app and reinstall an older version that does not have the channel feature. However, this is not recommended as it may cause some issues with your account and data. You may also miss out on other new features and security updates that WhatsApp provides. It is better to keep your app updated to the latest version for the best experience.
The channel feature is currently available only in India, where WhatsApp has over 400 million users. WhatsApp launched Channels in June 2023 and initially rolled it out in a handful of countries: Singapore, Colombia, Ukraine, Chile, Malaysia, Egypt, Peru, Kenya, and Morocco. The company has also not revealed how it plans to monetize the feature or how it will ensure its compliance with local laws and regulations.
