Instagram Channels: All you need to know about the new feature

In a blog post, the company said that creators will be able to create channels to share their latest updates and behind-the-scenes moments with followers. They can send voice notes, and even create polls to crowdsource fan feedback. Only creators will be able to send messages to broadcast channels, while followers can react to content and vote in polls.

Instagram said it is currently testing broadcast channels with a handful of creators in the US and plans to expand in the coming months. Interested creators can sign up to be considered for early access by accessing the waiting list on their mobile device.

How do Instagram channels work?

Once a creator has access to broadcast channels, they can send messages from their Instagram inbox. His followers will receive a one-time notification to join the channel. Although anyone can search the broadcast channel and view the content, followers who join the channel will receive notifications when updates are made.

Followers can leave or mute broadcast channels at any time. They can also control the notifications they receive from creators by visiting a creator’s profile, tapping the bell icon, and selecting “Broadcast Channels.” Notifications will default to “Some”, but this setting can be changed to “All” or “None”.

Meta says that apart from the invite notification, followers will not receive any other information about a broadcast channel until they add the channel to their inbox. Once a channel is added to their inbox, it will appear among other message threads, with notifications turned on and acting like any other chat.

How to join broadcast channel

Followers can access the broadcast channel link via a creator’s Story sticker or a pinned link on their Instagram profile. If they are an existing follower, they will receive a one-time notification when a creator starts a new channel.

To join a broadcast channel, tap “Join Broadcast Channel”. After joining a channel, followers can respond to content and vote in polls. But, they will not be able to send the message. However, they broadcast channels of their favorite creators so friends can follow and join in.

In terms of security and privacy, Meta says users will be able to report both a broadcast channel or specific content shared in a channel, which can be removed if it goes against policies.