WhatsApp has been steadily expanding its Channels feature, which provides a convenient way to stay updated with news, personalities, and various organizations directly within the app. Until now, discovering relevant channels has been somewhat of a challenge. But that’s changing today with WhatsApp’s
announcement of a new, dedicated directory that neatly categorizes channels by topic.The new directory is designed to simplify the process of finding channels that align with your interests. It offers a variety of categories, including People, Organizations, Lifestyle, Sports, Entertainment, Businesses, and News & Information. If you’re keen on following celebrities or public figures, you can head straight to the “People” section. Or, if you’re more interested in staying abreast of current events, the “News & Information” section will point you towards reputable outlets.Previously, users had to rely on unofficial channel directories or stumble upon channel links shared elsewhere. With the introduction of this native directory, WhatsApp aims to make channel discovery a seamless part of the app experience. However, it’s important to note that Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, often rolls out new features gradually. So, even if you’ve diligently updated your WhatsApp to the latest version, you might need to exercise a bit of patience before the directory appears for you.
WhatsApp Channels launched globally one year ago. | Image credit — WhatsApp Blog
To access the new directory once it’s available, simply open WhatsApp and navigate to the “Updates” tab. From there, tapping the “Explore” button should reveal the categorized list of channels. It’s a simple yet significant step towards enhancing the discoverability and overall utility of WhatsApp Channels.
While third-party directories have offered similar functionality, the integration of a native directory within WhatsApp itself is a welcome move. It streamlines the discovery process, eliminating the need to leave the app or rely on external resources. This not only makes it easier for users to find relevant channels, but also potentially encourages greater engagement with the Channels feature as a whole.
I’m always excited to see platforms evolve and become more user-friendly. Personally, I find the new directory helpful. I appreciate having a centralized place within WhatsApp to explore and discover new channels. It opens up the possibility of connecting with a wider range of content creators and staying informed on topics that matter to me, all within a familiar environment.
