WhatsApp is currently developing a long-anticipated feature that will allow users to create usernames.
WhatsApp is preparing to launch a new usernames feature aimed at boosting user privacy and control. The update will allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers, a feature similar to Telegram and Signal.
According to WABetaInfo, the popular messaging platform is currently testing a system that lets users create unique usernames. This addition addresses growing privacy concerns by eliminating the need to exchange contact numbers to start a conversation.
New Username System and Its Features
With the usernames feature, WhatsApp will allow users to generate a unique identifier that can be shared instead of their phone number. Although each username remains internally linked to a registered phone number, only the handle will be visible to others.
The usernames must follow specific guidelines:
- Between 3 to 30 characters in length
- Contain at least one letter
- Use lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores
- Not start with “www.” or end with a domain like “.com”
Users will be able to change their usernames, with updates reflected to their contacts. This ensures transparency and reduces impersonation risks. Additionally, WhatsApp will include a handle availability checker on its web version to help users secure their desired usernames.
Although the company has not confirmed an official launch date, continuous beta testing signals that WhatsApp to introduce ‘usernames feature’ globally in the near future.
This new update is considered one of the most significant privacy enhancements for WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta. It especially benefits users in public groups, temporary chats, or professional environments who prefer to keep their numbers private.
Status Sharing Control Under Development
In addition to usernames, WhatsApp is testing a status-sharing feature. This will give users more control over who can forward or share their status updates. The feature was spotted in Android Beta version 2.25.16.16 and is expected to launch soon.
These updates reflect WhatsApp’s broader efforts to give users better privacy tools and communication control. For detailed insights into messaging trends, visit WIRED’s WhatsApp Coverage.
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