WhatsApp copies one-way broadcast communication feature from Telegram
Whatsapp has recently rolled out one-way broadcast communication for group chats, a feature that is already offered by rival app Telegram. Encrypted messaging platform Telegram allows users to get alerts and updates from group admins in the form of a one-way broadcast newsfeed. This feature can be activated in groups that don't prefer/require two-way communication like businesses, public interest groups, schools, and media companies.
WhatsApp admins can now control participants' ability to send messages
Now, WhatsApp has also rolled out a new feature that allows group admins to control who can send messages in a group chat. Admins can go to "Group Settings" and toggle the "Send Messages" option to choose if all participants can send messages in the group or only admin(s). The feature will restrict participants from sending text, images, videos, GIFs, documents, and voice clips.
The feature aims to de-clutter formal WhatsApp groups
Group members will be notified about the activation of the feature via a footer message and their chat text input bar will be disabled. They can request admins to give them back the ability to post in the group via a "Message Admin" button. WhatsApp said the feature can be used to "receive important announcements and information" from "teachers, community centers, and non-profit organizations."
Major privacy-related difference between the feature on WhatsApp and Telegram
On WhatsApp, users are added to a group using their phone numbers which can be viewed by any of the other group members. This makes users vulnerable to getting bullied or stalked. But on Telegram, which is known for its features around security and privacy, group members have "usernames" so that they can keep their identity private.
