WhatsApp is set to introduce usernames, allowing people to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers. The long-awaited feature is aimed at improving user privacy and giving people greater control over how they communicate on the messaging platform.
Until now, anyone wanting to chat on WhatsApp had to exchange mobile numbers, making personal contact information visible to friends, colleagues or even strangers. With the new system, users will be able to create a unique username that others can use to find and message them, similar to features already available on several other social media and messaging platforms.
The update is expected to benefit users who interact with new contacts, join community groups or communicate for work without wanting to reveal their personal phone numbers. Privacy advocates have welcomed the move, saying it addresses one of the biggest concerns faced by WhatsApp users for years.
According to reports, phone numbers will remain linked to user accounts for verification and security purposes. However, they will no longer need to be shared during everyday conversations if users choose to connect through usernames instead.
WhatsApp is also expected to introduce rules to ensure usernames remain unique and easy to identify. Certain formats and special characters may be restricted to prevent impersonation and misuse. Users will reportedly be notified whenever someone starts a conversation using their username instead of their phone number.
The feature is expected to offer an added layer of protection against spam, scams and unwanted contact, particularly for people who frequently communicate with customers, clients or members of public groups. It could also make the platform more appealing to users who have hesitated to share their mobile numbers online.
The username feature is currently being rolled out gradually and may not be available to all users immediately. WhatsApp is expected to share more details on availability and the final rollout schedule in the coming weeks.
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