Google Chat may get WhatsApp Channels-like feature; Learn all about Announcements

In an effort to increase its presence in the social media market, Google is adding a nifty new feature to its messaging service Chat. Google Chat replaces Hangouts and allows users to stay connected and collaborate with others on projects. However, unlike WhatsApp Channels, it now allows broadcast communications. But that could soon change as leaks suggest a new “Announcements” feature may be coming to Google Chat.

Also read: Google will ax a popular app with 500 million downloads!

Google Chat “Announcements” feature

According to a report by Android Police, tipster AssembleDebug has shared details about the upcoming “Announcements” feature. “Google Chat is working on a new ‘Announcement’ feature that will allow you to ‘broadcast and share updates to a group,'” the source said in an X post.

This means that through the Announcements feature, Google Chat users will be able to choose between two options when starting a new conversation – Collaborate and Announce. The partnership will allow users to “collaborate on a project, initiative or theme.” With it, they can assign tasks, share files, and organize conversations into threads.

The Announcement feature, on the other hand, will bring broadcast functionality that will allow specific users to post messages and share updates with who they want, such as a WhatsApp channel. While the tipster says “there isn’t much information about it yet,” it looks like screenshots of the work-in-progress user interface show how the feature will work.

Also read: Google Photos launches favorite shortcuts!

Other features

Google Chat has been getting more and more updates lately, perhaps in an effort to catch up with competitors. In November, Google improved the navigation system of the Chat app on Android and iOS devices, bringing a pill-shaped navigation bar for easy and quick access to Gmail, Chat, and Google Meet.

That same month, Google also launched the ability to comment directly on Docs and Sheets, a feature that helps in collaborative spaces. Additionally, Google now displays more content threads to give users more context when replying to chats.

And one more thing! We can now use WhatsApp channels! Follow us so you don’t miss any updates from the world of technology. ‎To follow the HT Tech channel on WhatsApp, click here Join now!