Like Telegram: WhatsApp introduces channels
WhatsApp is becoming a social media platform - or at least that's what it looks like. Content can now be shared in so-called "channels" like on Telegram.
WhatsApp: privacy should be written in capital letters
Channel admins can decide for themselves whether their content should be findable in a directory or not. However, the channels are not end-to-end encrypted by default. The reason: WhatsApp wants to appeal to the widest possible audience.
With advertising
Channel operators can advertise their content, the messenger service writes in its blog - and provides payment services to "help people build their own business around their channel".
WhatsApp shows what the channels will look like in an advertising video. At launch - the function is currently still being rolled out - only "selected" organisations are available: The Singapore Heart Foundation, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), WHO, and also sports clubs such as FC Barcelona and Manchester United.
The Meta Group writes that the main use of WhatsApp should still be private messaging - even if the move to the channels is very reminiscent of social media, or at least looks like it.
Cover photo: Shutterstock / BigTunaOnline
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