Meta Platforms (META) to launch Channels in over 150 countries

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) announced Wednesday that it will launch WhatsApp Channels in over 150 countries.

Channels is a broadcast service that allows users to follow and receive updates from celebrities, sports teams and thought leaders. Meta said it is welcoming thousands of organizations, sports teams, artists, and thought leaders onto Channels.

"Our goal is to build the most private broadcast service available," Meta said in its statement.

Meta is aiming to increase engagement across its social media apps, with Channels previously launched in Singapore and Colombia earlier this year.

Meta said users will be able to find channels to follow that are automatically filtered based on their country. They are also able to view channels that are new, most active, and popular based on the number of followers.

META shares are up more than 1% so far in Wednesday's session, adding to its over 140% year-to-date gains.

By Sam Boughedda

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