WEBDESK: The WhatsApp new feature that will make chatting safer and more private for its users. The upcoming update will allow people to create usernames, meaning they won’t have to share their phone numbers to start a conversation.
According to details exposed by WABetaInfo, a system on the messaging platform is in a testing phase that will let users communicate without sharing their contact numbers.
This WhatsApp new feature is a big step towards protecting user privacy. Right now, WhatsApp users can only message each other if they have each other’s phone numbers. But with this update, users will be able to connect through a unique username – just like on apps like Telegram and Signal.
According to reports, the WhatsApp new feature is currently being tested and may be released soon. Once launched, users will have the option to set a username that can be shared with others instead of giving out their phone number.
The username will act as your WhatsApp ID.
How to create your Whatsapp username?
Here are some of the rules for creating your Whatsapp ID:
- It must be between 3 and 30 characters.
- It should include at least one letter.
- You can use lowercase letters, numbers, underscores, and periods.
- It cannot start with “www.” or end with something like “.com”.
The good news is that users will also be able to change their usernames whenever needed. WhatsApp will notify your contacts of the update, so nobody gets confused or tricked by fake accounts.
The upcoming usernames feature will enable users to create dedicated usernames similar to Telegram and Signal’s features, ensuring the numbers are not shared.
To help people pick a username that isn’t already taken, WhatsApp is also introducing a handle availability checker – starting with its web platform. This tool will let users see if their desired username is available, similar to how social media apps work.
This WhatsApp new feature is expected to improve safety, especially for users who want to chat with someone new but don’t feel comfortable sharing their phone number. It will also help businesses and public figures who want to interact with their audience without revealing personal contact details.
If implemented, this would be one of the most significant updates to WhatsApp’s privacy model in years, giving users more control over how they connect, especially in public groups, temporary chats, or professional exchanges.
Stay tuned for more updates at Azaad English.
