Instagram is releasing a new chat function called Channels,
which works like a broadcast chat by keeping users up to date about specific topics.
In the initial test, Channels will include messages regarding Meta’s upcoming technologies
and products. Later, users will receive messages from their favourite creators
and other people that Meta collaborates with on Channels.
The functionality is a part of Direct Messages, so once a user joins a Channel, the chat will be added to their existing list of Direct Messages. The messages sent in Channels support text, images, polls, reactions, and other IG tools. One thing to note about these chats is that users can only read messages and react to them, but can not write and send messages.
Since messaging is one of the core elements of Instagram, broadcast
chats could be a successful integration where people can come together to
create connections. It could facilitate engagement between brands and customers,
as well as creators and their audience.
Channels is initially being rolled out to selected users,
while Meta also intends to bring the functionality to Facebook and Messenger in
a few months.
