WhatsApp is set to introduce usernames, allowing users to connect and chat without sharing their phone numbers in a move aimed at strengthening privacy on the messaging platform.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Meta-owned messaging service announced the upcoming feature on Monday, saying users will be able to choose unique usernames that can be shared instead of their mobile numbers.
According to the company, the update is “designed to protect the privacy of your phone number” by limiting when phone numbers are visible to other users.
Once the feature is available, phone numbers will no longer be automatically shared in situations such as joining large group chats or contacting a person or business for the first time.
WhatsApp also said the system is designed to prevent unsolicited contact.
“There’s no directory to browse and no suggestions, so people need to know your exact username to contact you.”
With more than three billion users worldwide, Meta acknowledged that not everyone will be able to secure their preferred username because of the platform’s large user base.
The company said it will begin rolling out username reservations globally over the coming months and will notify users when the feature becomes available in their respective countries.
Meta also announced that creators, small businesses and organisations will be able to reserve WhatsApp usernames that match those they already use on Facebook or Instagram, helping maintain a consistent identity across its platforms.
