How to Use WhatsApp Channels in India – Complete Guide for 2025
WhatsApp Channels have officially launched in India, offering users a new way to stay informed by following updates from organizations, creators, brands, and public figures. As a result, staying connected with your favorite sources has never been easier.
If you’re wondering how to explore or create a WhatsApp Channel in India, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. Let’s begin with the basics.
📢 What Are WhatsApp Channels?
WhatsApp Channels are a one-way broadcast tool that allows admins to send messages, images, videos, stickers, and polls to their followers. Unlike groups, followers can’t reply directly or engage in two-way conversations.
It’s ideal for:
- News outlets
- Government authorities
- Brands and influencers
- Event organizers
How to Use WhatsApp Channels in India (Step-by-Step)
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Open WhatsApp and go to the Updates tab (replaces the Status tab).
- Then, tap “Find Channels” to explore public channels.
- Use the search bar or browse by category.
- After that, tap Follow on any channel to start receiving updates.
- Consequently, all updates from followed channels will now appear in the Updates feed.
✅ Done! You’re now connected to your favorite content on WhatsApp.
🛠️ How to Create a WhatsApp Channel
If the feature is available on your account, you can easily set up a WhatsApp Channel to start sharing updates with followers:
- Go to the Updates tab.
- Next, tap the “+” icon and select Create Channel.
- Set a name, description, and channel icon.
- Finally, tap Create to go live.
🔗 Share your channel link to gain followers.
Note: WhatsApp is rolling out this feature gradually, so channel creation might not be available to all users yet.
🔍 Key Features of WhatsApp Channels
- Message Editing: Additionally, admins can edit messages within 30 days
- Retention Policy: Moreover, channel updates are auto-deleted after 30 days
⚙️ Managing Your WhatsApp Channels
- Unfollow: Tap the channel → Menu (⋮) → Unfollow
- Mute: Tap channel → Tap Bell icon to mute notifications
- Notifications: Customize from WhatsApp Settings → Notifications
- Privacy Settings: Admins can block screenshots and forwarding (in some cases)
🌐 WhatsApp Channels in India: Availability
- Available across India for both Android and iOS users
- Now also accessible via WhatsApp Web and Mac Desktop App
- Not yet supported on Windows desktop apps
- Requires WhatsApp version 2.23.19.x or newer
- Available in 13+ Indian languages
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can anyone create a WhatsApp Channel in India?
A: Yes, if the feature has rolled out to your account and your app is updated.
Q2: Is a WhatsApp Channel the same as a Group?
A: No. Channels are one-way broadcast tools. Groups allow two-way messaging.
Q3: Can I directly contact a Channel admin on WhatsApp?
A: No, WhatsApp Channels are designed for one-way updates. Followers cannot send direct messages to the admin.
Q4: Are WhatsApp Channels public?
A: Yes, most channels are public and can be searched and followed by anyone.
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✅ Final Thoughts
WhatsApp Channels offer a fresh, efficient way to get updates from your favorite people and brands—right inside WhatsApp. Whether you’re a casual follower or looking to start your own channel, now is the perfect time to explore this exciting feature in India.