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BUSINESS EYE NOVEMBER 24, 2023 | The Indian Eye 44

TECH T@LK

WhatsApp channels cross 500 million monthly active users

OUR BUREAU you up-to-date on what we’re building.”
In September, WhatsApp introduced Chan-
San Francisco, CA
nels, a one-way platform for sharing information
ark Zuckerberg announced that with followers. Stickers on channels is a new fea-
WhatsApp Channels had crossed 500 ture that WhatsApp released on Wednesday.
Mmillion monthly active users on Wednes- Meanwhile, many Threads users are now
day. Channels are a new way to obtain information reporting that they can opt out of having their
from individuals, organisations, and teams you fol- postings shared on Instagram and Facebook. To
low on WhatsApp. prevent Threads posts from appearing on Meta’s
Channels are distinct from private chats, and other platforms, press the two lines in the top right
who you choose to follow is not visible to other of the Threads app > Privacy > Suggesting
followers. Mark Zuckerberg said, “500 million posts on other apps - two switches allow users
monthly activities on WhatsApp Channels in the to disable Instagram and Facebook suggestions.
first 7 weeks! Great to see the WA community so Meta prefers to bring out Threads features grad-
engaged.” ually, reported The Verge.
Sharing his thoughts on WhatsApp Chan- form to build my community of food lovers and According to The Verge, Instagram and Face-
nel, Punjabi actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh said, “My share content that I’m passionate about, all things book each got a “For you on Threads” carousel in
WhatsApp Channel is where I communicate with food! Whether it’s sharing my favourite recipes, the last few months. Responding to user grumpi-
my fans in a personal and authentic way. It feels cooking tips or personal moments, WhatsApp ness, Threads said in October it was “listening to
like I’m connecting with them, sharing the most Channels is the perfect place to do that and the feedback” shortly before testing the opt-out switch
important moments of my life with them, just like best part is that it’s as simple as sending a mes- that’s rolling out now.
I would with my friends and family back home. sage.” The feature was clearly designed to drive en-
Whether it’s my new song, an exciting collabora- WhatsApp said in a statement, “This is just the gagement on Threads, which appeared to be foun-
tion or just a good morning message, WhatsApp beginning, and we’ll continue to add more features dering following an excellent initial launch. How-
Channels is where I express myself and feel closer and expand Channels based on feedback we get ever, things are looking up now. Threads now has
to my community of fans.” from users. If you’re looking to hear about more around 100 million monthly users, according to
Indian celebrity chef, Ranveer Brar, said, product updates directly from us, we’ve now also Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg on an earnings call
“WhatsApp Channels has been an amazing plat- launched the official WhatsApp Channel to keep last month.

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