The new WhatsApp Channels function is closer to being ready: in the Beta version for iPhone, a specific section for public chats was found within the “Updates” tab (“Updates”, in free translation), replacing the “Status” tab .
The latest discovery from the WABetaInfo website is not yet accessible to testers, but it signals that WhatsApp Channels take shape in the messenger. The collective conversations will share space with the platform’s temporary posts, but will be presented differently to facilitate navigation.
In prints released by the informant, the “Updates” tab will be divided into two areas: Status, arranged horizontally as in Instagram Stories; and Channels, organized in a list, just like traditional conversations.
For now, the visuals look slightly disjointed, but that’s normal for the development period. It is possible that WhatsApp will revise the section to make it more polished and provide a more consistent experience across the app.
WhatsApp channels are optional
WhatsApp Channels will be like large public messenger chats, much like Telegram’s feature of the same name. Initially, the tool was called “Newsletters”, but the messenger apparently replaced it so as not to be confused with traditional newsletters.
Public conversations will allow users to stay tuned for topics that matter to them, such as sports, politics, news and more. Joining a channel is completely optional, and chats should not be secured with end-to-end encryption, it’s worth noting.
No release date
Until now, Channels have not been put up for public testing. The tool is still in preparation and should still take some time to be inaugurated. It is worth paying attention to the next updates of the messenger.
Source: WABetaInfo
