WhatsApp to Launch Verified Channel Badge Feature Soon: The latest updates reveal that WhatsApp is developing a new feature to allow businesses to display a verified badge on their channels. The messaging platform is set to revamp its verification system, aligning with the blue check marks seen on Facebook and Instagram. These blue verified badges are expected to replace the current system. In this article, we’ll cover everything about the WhatsApp Verified Channel Badge feature and guide you on how to get your channel verified.
WhatsApp Verified Channel Badge Feature
In the recent WhatsApp beta update for Android 2.24.1.18, WABetaInfo revealed a new ‘verified channel’ feature. This update is being gradually rolled out to users participating in the Android app’s beta testing program. Unlike other features already added to WhatsApp, this one is still in the development phase, but beta testers will soon have access to it.
This article provides an overview of everything you need to know about the upcoming WhatsApp verified channel feature. However, it’s important to note that no official announcement has been made yet.
More Details About The WhatsApp Verified Channel Badge Feature
WABetaInfo shared a screenshot showcasing the new user interface for WhatsApp’s verified channel feature. This feature, seemingly designed for WhatsApp Business users, will allow businesses to display a verified badge on channels created specifically for their brand.
Interestingly, the leaked screenshot reveals that once the verified badge is added, the channel’s current name and profile picture will be automatically updated. Verified business credentials will be used to activate this feature, ensuring authenticity for your business channel.
How To Avail These Verified Badges?
According to WABetaInfo, businesses will need to subscribe to Meta Verified in order to obtain a verified checkmark on their WhatsApp channels. The leaked details indicate that only business accounts can access this feature, meaning individual users or non-business accounts won’t be able to add verified tick marks.
Additionally, a preview will show how your name, verified badge, and channel image will appear. If you want to update your channel’s photo, you’ll need to make the changes directly in your profile.
Understanding the Verified Channel Badge Feature
What is the Verified Channel Badge?
Definition and Purpose of the Badge
WhatsApp is introducing the Verified Channel Badge, a new feature that allows businesses to display a verified status on their channels. This badge serves as a symbol of authenticity, indicating to users that the channel is genuine and operated by a verified business entity. The primary purpose of this badge is to enhance trust between businesses and their customers, assuring that the communications received are legitimate and not from impostors.
Differentiation Between Regular and Verified Channels
Regular channels on WhatsApp do not carry any verification markers, which may leave users needing clarification about the credibility of the information or promotions shared. In contrast, verified channels will prominently feature the Verified Channel Badge, distinguishing them from non-verified accounts. This differentiation is crucial, as it allows users to quickly identify authentic business communications, thereby minimizing the risk of scams and misinformation. The verified badge not only adds a layer of trust but also elevates a business’s reputation on the platform.
Who Can Benefit from This Feature?
Target Audience: WhatsApp Business Users
The Verified Channel Badge is designed explicitly for WhatsApp Business users. This feature is particularly advantageous for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and giant corporations looking to establish a credible presence on the messaging platform. By leveraging the verified badge, businesses can effectively communicate with their customers, share important updates, and promote their products or services, all while reinforcing their brand’s authenticity.
How the Feature Enhances Brand Credibility and Trust
The introduction of the Verified Channel Badge significantly enhances brand credibility by providing a clear signal to users that the business is legitimate. When customers see the badge, they are more likely to engage with the brand, knowing that their interactions are secure and trustworthy. This feature not only boosts customer confidence but also fosters a stronger connection between businesses and their audience. Additionally, a verified status can lead to increased visibility within WhatsApp, allowing companies to reach a wider audience and engage more effectively with their target market.
Key Features of the Verified Channel Badge
Display of Verification Badge
Description of How Businesses Can Showcase the Badge on Their Channels
Once a business has obtained the Verified Channel Badge, it will be prominently displayed on its WhatsApp channel. This badge serves as a visual indicator of authenticity, allowing users to easily recognize verified businesses. The badge will typically appear next to the business name, making it instantly noticeable in chat lists and on the channel profile. By showcasing the badge, businesses can convey their commitment to transparency and reliability, which can significantly enhance customer trust and engagement.
Visual Representation of the Badge in User Interfaces
The Verified Channel Badge is designed to be visually distinctive, resembling a blue checkmark similar to those used on other platforms like Facebook and Instagram. This familiar design helps users quickly identify verified accounts. The badge will be displayed in various user interfaces, including:
- Channel Header: The badge will appear alongside the business name at the top of the channel.
- Chat List: In the list of chats, the badge will accompany the channel name, making it easily identifiable when users scroll through their conversations.
- Business Profile: On the business profile page, the badge will be prominently featured, reinforcing the business’s verified status.
By utilizing a clear and recognizable visual, WhatsApp ensures that users can confidently distinguish verified channels from regular ones.
Integration with Business Profiles
Overview of How the Badge Integrates with Existing Business Profiles
The Verified Channel Badge will seamlessly integrate with existing WhatsApp Business profiles, enhancing the overall user experience without requiring significant changes to current functionalities. Businesses that already have a WhatsApp Business account will need to undergo the verification process to unlock the badge feature. This integration allows companies to maintain their existing profile elements, such as descriptions and contact information while adding an essential layer of credibility with the verified badge.
Changes to Channel Names and Profile Pictures Upon Verification
When a business receives the verified channel badge, specific updates will be made to its channel name and profile picture. Specifically:
- Channel Name Update: In some cases, the channel name may be standardized to align with the business’s verified identity. This ensures consistency and clarity for users who interact with the brand.
- Profile Picture Modification: The profile picture may also be adjusted to more accurately reflect the business’s branding, often accompanied by the verified badge. Businesses can still customize their profile picture, but it will be essential to ensure that it aligns with the verification status.
How to Obtain the Verified Channel Badge
Subscription Requirements
Explanation of the Meta-Verified Subscription Needed for Businesses
To obtain the Verified Channel Badge, businesses must subscribe to the Meta Verified service. This subscription is designed to help companies enhance their visibility and credibility on WhatsApp and other Meta platforms. The Meta Verified subscription typically includes:
- Enhanced Verification: Businesses gain access to tools that streamline the verification process, ensuring their legitimacy is recognized across Meta’s ecosystem.
- Support and Resources: Subscribers may receive additional support and resources aimed at optimizing their business profiles and communication strategies on WhatsApp.
While the exact cost of the subscription may vary, it is an investment for businesses seeking to establish a trustworthy presence on the platform.
Clarification that Individual Users and Non-Business Accounts Cannot Access This Feature
It is important to note that the verified channel badge is exclusively available for WhatsApp business accounts. Individual users and non-business accounts will not have access to this feature, ensuring that only verified entities can communicate with customers under the verified status. This limitation helps maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of business communications on WhatsApp, reducing the risk of scams and misleading information.
Activation Process
Step-by-Step Guide on How Businesses Can Activate the Badge
Activating the Verified Channel Badge is a straightforward process for WhatsApp Business users. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Subscribe to Meta Verified: Begin by signing up for the Meta Verified subscription through the official Meta website or the WhatsApp Business app.
- Complete Profile Setup: Ensure your WhatsApp Business profile is fully set up, including accurate business information, contact details, and a professional profile picture.
- Submit Verification Request: After subscribing, navigate to the verification section within the app and submit a request for the Verified Channel Badge.
- Provide Required Documentation: Prepare to submit any necessary documentation that proves your business’s legitimacy, such as business licenses, tax identification numbers, or other relevant credentials.
- Await Confirmation: Once submitted, Meta’s team will review your verification request. You will then receive a notification regarding the status of your application.
- Receive the Verified Badge: If approved, the Verified Channel Badge will be automatically added to your WhatsApp channel, allowing you to showcase your verified status.
Required Documentation for Verification
To successfully obtain the Verified Channel Badge, businesses may need to provide specific documentation during the verification process. Commonly required documents include:
- Business License: A valid business license that demonstrates the legitimacy of your enterprise.
- Tax Identification Number: Proof of your business’s tax identification to verify your business’s legal status.
- Official Identification: Government-issued identification for business owners or representatives to confirm identity.
- Additional Information: Depending on the nature of the business, additional documents may be requested to support the verification request.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the Verified Channel Badge on WhatsApp?
The Verified Channel Badge is a new feature that allows WhatsApp Business accounts to display a verification badge on their channels, indicating authenticity and trustworthiness to users.
Who is eligible to receive the Verified Channel Badge?
The verified channel badge is exclusively available for WhatsApp business accounts. Individual users and non-business accounts cannot access this feature.
How can businesses obtain the Verified Channel Badge?
Businesses must subscribe to the Meta Verified service and follow the verification process, which includes submitting necessary documentation to confirm their legitimacy.
What subscription is required to access the Verified Channel Badge?
Businesses are required to subscribe to the Meta Verified service, which includes tools and resources for verification on WhatsApp and other Meta platforms.
Will individual users be able to get the Verified Channel Badge?
No, the Verified Channel Badge is only available to WhatsApp Business users. Individual and non-business accounts will not have access to this feature.
What documents are needed for verification?
Businesses typically need to provide a valid business license, tax identification number, and official identification for business owners or representatives, along with any additional documents as required.
How does the Verified Channel Badge enhance brand credibility?
The badge signals to users that the business is legitimate and trustworthy, helping to build confidence and strengthen the relationship between companies and their customers.
How will the Verified Channel Badge appear on WhatsApp?
The badge will be prominently displayed next to the business name in the channel header, chat lists, and business profile, making it easily recognizable to users.
Is there a cost associated with the Meta Verified subscription?
Yes, businesses will need to pay a subscription fee for the Meta Verified service. The exact cost may vary, so companies should check the official Meta website for pricing details.
How long does the verification process take?
The duration of the verification process can vary. After submitting the verification request and required documentation, businesses will receive a notification regarding the status of their application. The timeframe for approval is generally communicated during this process.
Conclusion
The upcoming launch of the Verified Channel Badge feature on WhatsApp represents a significant advancement for businesses utilizing the platform. By offering a clear indication of authenticity and credibility, this feature aims to enhance user trust and engagement. With the ability to display a verification badge, businesses can differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace, fostering stronger connections with their audience.
As WhatsApp continues to evolve, the Verified Channel Badge is poised to become an essential tool for WhatsApp Business accounts, providing them with a competitive edge and reinforcing their legitimacy in the eyes of consumers. Businesses interested in leveraging this feature must subscribe to the Meta Verified service and prepare the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth verification process.
