Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has officially launched its Channels feature for message broadcasting, broadening access after initial trials earlier this year. This feature, which began limited to a select group of creators, is now available to users globally.
The testing phase for the broadcast channels commenced in February. This feature empowers creators to distribute updates via text, video, and photos to their subscribed followers within their broadcast channels. It’s important to note that only creators have the ability to send messages; followers can engage solely by reacting to posts or participating in polls.
In a blog entry dated June 15, Meta confirmed the worldwide rollout of Broadcast Channels. Once creators gain access to create a channel, they can invite followers and send out messages. Followers who join the channel will receive notifications about updates from the creator, while all Instagram users will have the option to view the content shared on these channels.
Followers maintain the flexibility to leave a channel or mute notifications whenever they choose.
For Instagram creators interested in establishing a broadcast channel on Android or iOS devices, the following steps can be followed:
Step 1: Navigate to your Instagram page and tap the messenger icon located at the top right of your feed.
Step 2: Click on the edit or message icon at the top right.
Step 3: Select the ‘Create broadcast channel’ option.
Step 4: Assign a name to your broadcast channel and specify your audience.
Step 5: You can display the channel on your profile.
Step 6: Finally, tap ‘Create broadcast channel’ to complete the process.
Users wishing to join a broadcast channel can either click the access link provided by the creator or tap the pinned link in the creator’s Instagram profile. Upon selecting ‘Join broadcast channel,’ users will opt-in to receive notifications for future updates. While followers can react to content and participate in polls, they do not have the capability to send messages.
