WhatsApp channel
A one-way broadcast feature in WhatsApp (2023, Meta). Organizations and celebrities post updates that followers see in a separate "Updates" tab. Meta's answer to Telegram channels. Followers are anonymous to each other and to the sender.
Privacy: your number is hidden from the channel admin and other followers (distinct from groups). Not E2E encrypted (broadcasting to many → encryption is pointless). Reactions and emoji replies but no two-way chat. A channel directory for discovery. Use case: WHO health info, football clubs, news organizations, celebrities. Competes directly with Telegram channels and Instagram Broadcast Channels. Part of Meta's strategy to keep users inside WhatsApp for one-way consumption, not just private chat.