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WhatsApp Rolls Out New Channels Feature in Over 150 Countries

  • WhatsApp rolling out Channels feature to over 150 countries
  • Lets you subscribe to updates from creators, organizations, brands
  • Similar to Telegram's channels
  • New enhancements like improved directory, emoji reactions, ability for admins to edit posts
  • Thousands of new channels being added, including celebrities and brands
  • WhatsApp will add more features over time
  • Option to join waitlist if you don't have Channels yet
theverge.com
Relevant topic timeline:
The main topic is the release of a beta version of voice chats in WhatsApp for group audio conversations. 1. WhatsApp has released a beta version of voice chats, allowing users to have ongoing group audio conversations. 2. Voice chats are different from group calls and provide a Discord-like experience. 3. Voice chats are protected by end-to-end encryption and shut off after an hour of inactivity.
WhatsApp is testing a new AI-powered feature that allows users to create stickers by describing what they want them to look like. The feature is currently limited to a small group of beta testers on Android but is expected to have a wider release in the coming weeks. This feature adds customization and eliminates the need to scroll through sticker packs to find the perfect expression.
The main topic is the official rollout of the ability to send HD photos on WhatsApp. Key points: 1. Users can now choose to send photos in either Standard or HD quality. 2. The ability to send HD photos has been a highly requested feature. 3. WhatsApp has been testing the feature in beta versions and it is now being rolled out to all users.
WhatsApp Business has introduced several new features in 2023, including business profiles, screen sharing, call scheduling, catalogs, and automated personalized messaging, making it a more viable option for companies and smaller businesses.
WhatsApp is reportedly preparing to comply with the European Union's Digital Markets Act by introducing a feature that allows interoperability with third-party messaging apps, such as Signal and Telegram, starting in March 2024.
WhatsApp is preparing to comply with European law on messaging interoperability by introducing a new feature called Third-Party Chats, while Apple is pushing back on claims that iMessage should be subject to the same antitrust law.
WhatsApp has introduced a feature called Channels, allowing brands and other entities to reach a broader audience with one-to-many messaging, and it will be accessible to almost everyone by September 19, according to WhatsApp CEO Will Cathcart.
WhatsApp is developing a beta iPad app that allows users to access messages across multiple Apple devices, similar to the Mac app, but it is still unclear when it will be available to the public.
Meta is expanding WhatsApp payment options in India, signaling its intent to generate more revenue from the messaging app.
WhatsApp is undergoing a UI overhaul to create a more modern appearance, including colorless top bars, a new floating action button, and the ability to reply to updates from Channels, expanding its functionality and making it more inclusive.
WhatsApp has been busy this month, introducing new features such as Channels, iPad support, a complete redesign, and the incorporation of generative AI, making it a leading competitor among encrypted messengers.
WhatsApp's beta for Android app is testing new features that offer users more control over their locked chats by adding a secret code and providing additional text formatting tools. The secret code feature adds an extra layer of security, while the text formatting tools allow for greater customization of messages.
WhatsApp is reportedly developing new features including a secret code for locked chats, a search feature for updates, pinned messages, a redesigned chat attachment menu, and privacy protection for IP addresses in calls.
Meta is giving WhatsApp's interface a much-needed overhaul, with a new design that integrates all the app's features seamlessly, including changes to the navigation bar, color schemes, and the floating action button for a fresh look, slowly rolling out to beta testers with the possibility of gradual implementation in future updates.