If you are a WhatsApp user, you might have heard about a new feature that WhatsApp has launched recently: WhatsApp Channels. This feature allows you to follow channels of your interest and receive updates from them directly on WhatsApp.
You might be wondering: is this feature available for all WhatsApp users? How can you access it? And what are the benefits of using it? In this article, I will answer these questions and more.
WhatsApp Channels is designed to be the most private broadcast service available. Channels are separate from your chats, and who you choose to follow is not visible to other followers. WhatsApp also protects the personal information of both admins and followers.
Are WhatsApp Channels Available for All WhatsApp Users?
WhatsApp Channels was launched in June 2023, but it was initially limited to certain countries.
However, according to WhatsApp CEO Will Cathcart, Channels will be available to almost everyone by September 19, 2023. This means that by 19 we all should have been able to access this feature and follow channels of our interest on WhatsApp.
Unfortunately not all the WhatsApp Users are able to use the WhatsApp channel. A lot of people are still finding it difficult to locate the channels on the WhatsApp application.
How Can You Access WhatsApp Channels?
To access WhatsApp Channels, you need a WhatsApp account and the latest version of WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app.
You can find and follow channels in three ways: by browsing the channel list, by checking recommended channels, or by scanning QR codes.
Here are the methods to use this three steps to access your whatsapp channels:
- Browsing the channel list: You can browse the channel list that is automatically curated for you based on your country code and language preference.
You can change the country code, category, and filter to explore more channels. You can access the channel list by tapping the Channels icon on the bottom right corner of the app.
- Checking recommended channels: You can also find channels on the Updates tab on WhatsApp. Open the updates and scroll down to the bottom to see a list of recommended channels. These recommended channels are based on being active and popular.
- Scanning QR codes: You can also find channels through QR codes that contain links to channels.
You just need to open the QR scanner from the app menu and point your camera at the QR code. You will then see a preview of the channel and you can choose to follow it or not.
What are the Benefits of Using WhatsApp Channels?
WhatsApp Channels is a new way to connect with your customers, fans, or followers on WhatsApp.
Here are some benefits of using WhatsApp Channels:
- You can reach more people who use WhatsApp regularly and prefer receiving updates from you on this platform.
- You can share relevant and timely information with your audience, such as new products, offers, events, tips, or news.
- You can increase audience engagement and loyalty by allowing them to react to your updates and show their interest.
- You can measure your channel performance by tracking metrics such as views, reactions, clicks, and polls.
Conclusion
You can use WhatsApp as a powerful tool for marketing and communication with your audience, thanks to the great potential of WhatsApp Channels.
This feature is not yet available to everyone, as it is still in its early stages.
But you can join the waitlist and get notified when you can access WhatsApp Channels.