WhatsApp beta on Android received a new update with a subtle change to the feature that should display news and newsletters in the Status tab.
That’s because the name of feature changed from Newsletter to simply “Channels”. As we know, the new feature should function as a separate section within the current Status tab.
Another important change can also be seen in the name of the tab itself, which is now called “Updates”. See below the change in the two names:
WhatsApp channels are still in testing, but the feature should work simply. The user will be able to search for specific channels to receive updates and information produced by a professional team.
Citing as an example, TechSmart readers will be able to see news or even smartphone hands-on videos within a website channel.
WABetaInfo points out that WhatsApp will not recommend channels, since the feature does not have algorithms. Also, to maintain privacy, the user’s phone number will be hidden and contacts will not be able to see which channels their friends follow.
For now, there is no release date for the novelty in the public version.