• By Vikas Yadav
  • Sun, 17 Sep 2023 05:57 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

WhatsApp recently rolled out Channels for users in India. Using the new feature, users can directly join spaces of people or organisations that interest them and wish to receive updates. Once users follow a channel, they receive updates such as text messages, pictures, videos and more straight from the channel manager.

These updates are present in a separate section of the app, away from the personal messages and calls within the 'Updates' column. If you wish to create a channel for followers to directly share updates, here is a how-to guide to creating a channel.

Also Read: WhatsApp 'Status' Becomes 'Updates' As Meta Begins Rolling Out 'Channels' Feature For Android, iOS Users | What's New?

But before proceeding, a user must update their WhatsApp version to the latest build from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on their smartphone. Also, according to WhatsApp, the option to create a channel is not available for all users across India. Hence, it might not work for some users.

WhatsApp recently rolled out Channels for users in India. (Image:Meta)

How To Create WhatsApp Channels | Step-By-Step

Step 1: Open WhatsApp

Step 2: Tap on the '+' icon located next to the Channels menu

Step 3: Press 'New Channel'

Step 4: Tap 'Get Started' and follow the on-screen instructions

Step 5: Choose a name for your channel and proceed

Note: Users can personalise their channels using a custom profile photo and description

Step 6: Tap 'Create channel'

Also Read: WhatsApp Channels: New Feature Leaves Netizens Scratching Their Heads; Users Say ‘Ab Iska Kya Karen’

You can change the profile photo, description, and name of your channel anytime in the future. Plus, sending an update on channels is similar to chatting with friends via text or media such as images, videos, stickers and more. It is a one-way broadcast medium to send updates, which means followers cannot share updates. However, they can react to updates and forward them.

For information, following a channel on WhatsApp does not reveal a user's phone number. Secondly, the company will add more creator-focused updates based on user feedback later.