How to Create a WhatsApp Channel? [Tips and Instructions 2025]

June 2023: WhatsApp announced a great means of business marketing: WhatsApp Channels. Its global introduction was not until September, though.

Anyway, WhatsApp channels are a popular feature nowadays. If you use them efficiently, you can reach a large number of people with your intended message in various formats, such as text, images, videos, etc.

It is a great way to communicate directly with your target audience. As a business, you can boost customer engagement and earn loyalty with brand awareness.

This blog will explain the WhatsApp Channel's setup process in detail. It is super easy to set up, and we will also explain how to use it. But, before that, let’s understand its meaning.

What is a WhatsApp Channel?

Businesses, celebrities, and other users use and create WhatsApp channels and reach numerous customers (unlimited number) with their messages at once. It saves time and fulfills your goal behind it. It could be marketing like new launches or discounts, engagement, sending updates, information/news, announcements, or anything else related to your specific field.

Moreover, it is essential to know that this WhatsApp feature is a one-way broadcasting. Your customers can only follow you and read your messages. They cannot reply to them, but they can react to them using the emojis you set.

Most importantly, the profiles and mobile numbers of admin & followers stay hidden. No one can view them. Thus, people can follow the channels without having to worry about exposing personal information. However, to ensure your followers can reach you, you can include a WhatsApp click-to-chat link. With Chatix app, you can also create whatsapp link for yourself.

Well, WhatsApp channels appear in the ‘Updates’ tab. People can find a Channel by searching or when others share it with them through links or In-app sharing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a WhatsApp Channel

Setting up a WhatsApp channel is not at all complicated. Obviously, you need a WhatsApp account for the latest version. For your business purposes, it is advisable to get a WhatsApp Business Account.

• Open the WhatsApp App or open the browser and access WhatsApp Web.
• In the app, tap on the ‘Updates’ section and then on the three dots in the top-right corner. Then, click on ‘Create Channel’.

Alternatively, if you are using the web, you will see the Channels icon on the left side (3rd one) in the WhatsApp web account.

• Next, choose ‘Create Channel.’ / Click on the ‘+’ sign on the top in WhatsApp Web.

• After that, there will be a Window (as below) stating about the Channel. Click on ‘Continue’ and proceed.

Customizing Your WhatsApp Channel

• After following the above steps, include the icon, name and details about the channel, and Create your Channel.

You can change the icon, name and description of your Channel later. For this, you can click on your Channel name or click on the three dots & go to Channel info. You will see the screen below.

Click on the edit icon to change the channel aspect you want.

• Channel description - This helps your to-be followers know about your channel.
• Channel icon - This is the image representing your channel.

Moreover, apart from the above customization options, you can also access the settings related to what type of emoji you want to allow your followers to react with.

Go to the three dots on the top-right corner and choose ‘Channel Settings.’ You will see the screen below. Choose your preferred option

Inviting Subscribers to Your Channel

Now, you can copy the link of your channel and share it with your potential followers and contacts. They can follow you and start getting your messages.

Below are the 3 ways you can copy the link of your channel. You will find similar options on the WhatsApp Business App on your phone (when you long-press on your channel in the ‘Updates’ section, a ‘link’ icon will appear at the top of the section).

Alternatively, get the link from your app Channel Window, three dots on the top-right corner, or the Channel info page.

As you can see in the above screenshot, you can even invite other admins and transfer ownership of your WhatsApp Channel.

Also read: The 10 Most Useful Email Formats for Online Stores

Best Practices for Managing Your WhatsApp Channel

When the channel is managed properly, it keeps followers engaged. It won’t be ignored or even reported. Also, it builds a great deal of trust and delivers value. To keep the subscribers interested in your updates and do the right thing, you must follow some of the best practices.

• You must not spam subscribers with too many updates or low-quality content. Share only relevant content to add value.
• The channel name should reflect your content and help potential followers decide if they should subscribe.
• WhatsApp has strict rules, and their violation can get your channel banned. It includes avoiding illegal content, misleading information, violent or explicit material, or any content that exploits others.
• Use one-way communication smartly and effectively. As it is not for conversations, send important updates, announcements, and alerts without overwhelming the feed.
• Make it visually appealing with images, videos, or PDFs. Text-only updates can be boring.
• Messages must be short, as people don’t have time to read long messages, but provide all necessary information.
• Engagement is essential, but direct replies are not an option with a Channel. Therefore, you can use emoji reactions to make followers feel involved without making the channel chaotic.
• Post frequently to keep your brand awareness. You can share different things, like behind-the-scenes insights, product launches, exclusive previews, and success stories, too.
• You can collaborate with influencers, industry experts, or brand ambassadors to help you increase your reach and attract new subscribers. They can share content or participate in Q&A sessions.
• Your channel can share updates on charity work, sustainability efforts, or community programs. Such real stories and testimonials help you build trust.
• Use WhatsApp’s poll feature to get feedback and customer opinions instantly. It can help you understand what your audience likes. You can get any product feedback or decide on future content.
• WhatsApp insights tell engagement levels and audience behavior. It shows which posts perform best and helps you adjust your strategy so that you can keep your channel growing.

Conclusion

A well-managed WhatsApp Channel can help businesses in a lot of ways. You can engage with your audience and build brand loyalty. Also, keep your followers informed and strengthen customer relationships. It can be an important part of your marketing strategy and help you grow your business. Well, Chatix is a great tool that complements this with its comprehensive solutions. Used as a live chat app for Shopify, this includes sending bulk and automated messages, scheduling broadcasts, and managing customer conversations with a shared inbox. Try Chatix today!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do I track my channel’s performance?

WhatsApp Business lets you check the below parameters for analysis

• Accounts reached in the last 30 days.
• Top regions where your content is popular.
• Number of followers gained or lost.
• Followers who are also your contacts.
• Emoji reaction details and poll results.

What are the limitations of WhatsApp Channels?

• It is a one-way message medium, so followers cannot reply or ask questions.
• You cannot personalise it for each customer, as the same message goes to all followers.
• Currently, you cannot integrate with Business API tools.
• Performance insights are limited.
• Updates appear only in the "Updates" tab and disappear after 30 days.

How can I get more subscribers for my WhatsApp Channel?

You can promote your channel on social media, websites, and through WhatsApp contacts through your Channel link. Also, you may ask your followers to share your Channel with their contacts. They can share it from the three dots on the top-right side.

Is the WhatsApp Channel free to use?

Yes, it is free for now. However, WhatsApp may bring about pricing changes.

How can I ensure my followers see my updates?

By default, notifications are off. However, you may ask them to enable notifications by tapping the bell icon in your channel.

Can I connect my WhatsApp Channel with CRM or other tools?

No, WhatsApp Channels do not support third-party integrations yet.