Channels and direct messages

Last updated 2 October 2026

← Help centre · Working in channels

Where conversations happen, and who can see them.

Channels

A channel is a shared place for a topic or a team. Public channels can be seen and joined by everyone in the company. Private channels are visible only to their members, and their names do not even appear to anyone else.

• To start one, choose the + beside Channels in the sidebar and give it a name.
• To join a public channel, open it and post, or choose to join.
• Archiving a channel removes it from daily use; its history is kept.

Direct messages

A direct message is a private conversation between you and one or more people. Only the people in it can read it. Administrators cannot read direct messages, and neither can our staff in the ordinary course of work.

Choose the + beside Direct messages to start one. Pick one person, or several for a group conversation.

Related

• Threads, reactions and mentions
• Share files and record clips
• Search
• Canvases, lists and tasks

Was this not what you needed? Email support@intercomchat.com and tell us what you were trying to do.

Xypno Business Solutions Ltd. Questions? Email support@intercomchat.com.