WhatsApp introduces username feature to enable more users’ privacy

WhatsApp has introduced a username feature that allows users to connect and chat without revealing their phone numbers.

Previously, WhatsApp conversations were tied directly to phone numbers, meaning users had to share their mobile numbers before starting a chat.

With the username option, users can interact using a chosen identity, similar to how communication works on other social platforms such as Telegram and Signal, where usernames or alternative identifiers can reduce dependence on phone numbers.

The change also comes as messaging platforms compete to provide safer and more flexible ways for people to communicate online.

For businesses, creators, and professionals, usernames could make it easier to build a public presence on whatsApp without making personal numbers widely available.

WhatsApp’s new feature is designed to give users more privacy and control over their identity on WhatsApp by allowing them to create unique usernames that others can use to find and message them.

How the WhatsApp username feature works

The username feature allows WhatsApp users to select a unique name that becomes their public identifier on the platform.

Once created, other users can search for the username and start a conversation without needing access to the person’s phone number.

The feature is expected to be useful for people who want to maintain privacy when communicating with new contacts, businesses, online communities, customers, or people they do not know personally.

For example, instead of giving out a phone number to a stranger or a new business contact, a user can simply share their WhatsApp username.

Users can reserve their preferred usernames

As the feature rolls out, WhatsApp users will be able to reserve their preferred usernames before someone else takes them.

The reservation process…

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