How do WhatsApp Channels work?

WHATSAPP has started rolling out a brand new feature allowing users to follow topics that interest them.

WhatsApp Channels is basically a one-way broadcast tool.

So the Channel owner can send you and others messages - but you can't respond.

These messages are sent to everyone in the Channel, not just private to you.

The idea could work for anything such as your favourite musician, football team or social group.

How do I get WhatsApp Channels?

WhatsApp Channels is now available globally to the app's 2billion users.

It's rolling out so you may not notice it immediately.

You can check for an update by going into the iOS App Store of Android's Google Play Store.

What is the function of WhatsApp Channels?

WhatsApp Channels allow you to follow specific interests but you can't respond.

For example, it could be a Taylor Swift fan club that posts news updates about the singer.

Or the organiser of a local football club could use it to post updates to everyone.

Admins can share things like photos, videos and polls.

Although you can't write a response you can put reactions against them.

How do I find WhatsApp Channels?

To find WhatsApp Channels, start by tapping the Channel button.

Then tap the + icon, followed by Find Channels.

Here you can browse categories and filter channels by topic, see channels from other countries or you can tap the magnifying glass icon to search for a channel.

Channels with a green tick icon next to their name are verified by WhatsApp as being authentic.

We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at tech@the-sun.co.uk