WhatsApp’s Latest Update: Alerts for Restricted Channels

Last week, Meta introduced the WhatsApp Channels feature in India and several other countries, allowing users to send one-way broadcasts encompassing text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls. Now, WhatsApp is taking a step further by testing a new feature that keeps channel creators in the loop about the status of their channels, especially when they are not functional in certain nations.

Who Can Access This Feature?

The rollout of this feature is currently available to select beta testers who have installed the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.20.9 update from the Google Play Store. Once updated, WhatsApp will send notifications to the channel’s creator if their channel becomes restricted in a specific country.

WhatsApp’s proactive approach in introducing these alerts is aimed at ensuring channel creators stay informed about the status of their channels in countries where restrictions may be imposed due to legal requirements. This move underscores WhatsApp’s commitment to adhering to local laws and safeguarding human rights while providing a secure and private platform for its users.

How Can You Verify If You Have This Feature?

At present, there is no direct method to determine if you have access to this feature unless you follow a channel that is explicitly not available in your country. While WABetaInfo cannot verify such channels at this time, they confirm that these channel alerts are already accessible to creators.

This new feature from WhatsApp demonstrates the company’s dedication to maintaining transparency and compliance with local regulations, making it a more responsible and user-friendly messaging platform.

Stay tuned for further updates as WhatsApp continues to enhance its platform for users around the world.