Following up on our update last week, TAG has been continuing to work together with filter companies in developing solutions for WhatsApp Channels, and we have been receiving updates daily.
The following are the most updated options:*
All of these filters can be installed at TAG Baltimore - book an appointment. If you already have the filter you may already have the Channels block applied by default by the filter company.
Android:
MB Smart can fully block Channels in both WhatsApp & WhatsApp Business.
Gentech blocks searches for Channels but not the suggested Channels, in both WhatsApp & WhatsApp Business
Netspark can fully block Channels in Moderate setting. Cannot block WhatsApp
Business.
iOS:
MB Smart can block media content in Channels but can’t block text.
Gentech can block media content only in the entire app, not just Channels, but can’t block text.
Windows:
*We have also just been informed that due to the technical nature of the app, this could all change entirely on a moment’s notice (via updates, etc.) and the filters could become instantly ineffective.
Additionally, WhatsApp introduced a new AI (Artificial Intelligence) feature last week which presents further issues regarding accessing negative content. As this is very new and is entirely unrelated to Channels, it is impossible to speculate if and what type of filtering solutions will be available for it. There is currently no way to filter the new AI feature.
Due to the difficulty in properly filtering Channels, as well as the app’s new AI features, TAG is recommending avoiding WhatsApp and seeking alternative platforms.
For more information, please contact TAG at 410-449-1824 or help@tagbaltimore.org.
Wishing You a Gut Yom Tov and Chag Sameach!
Mordechai Dixler
Director, TAG of Baltimore
