WhatsApp Introduces Username Feature — Eliminating The Need For Sharing Phone Numbers.

With usernames, WhatsApp aims to enhance user privacy since people will no longer require sharing their phone number to initiate a conversation.

WhatsApp is in the process of testing a new feature that is set to revolutionize how users communicate on the platform, offering an Instagram-like username system that will enable them to interact without divulging their phone numbers. This innovative development is poised to significantly enhance user privacy, as it eliminates the need to disclose personal contact information.

Initially discovered by WABetaInfo a few days ago in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android, it now appears that Meta-owned WhatsApp is gradually rolling out this groundbreaking feature to select beta users on iOS.

From the screenshot shared by the publication, it’s evident that the option to establish a WhatsApp username will be accessible from the user’s profile page. The username field seems to accept a combination of alphanumeric characters, as well as certain special characters, while every username on the platform will be required to be unique.

One of the key privacy advantages of this feature is that if someone initiates a chat using a person’s username, the associated phone number will remain concealed unless explicitly shared by the user. Furthermore, WhatsApp intends to extend this username capability to both individual users and businesses. Similar to regular WhatsApp chats, conversations initiated through usernames will benefit from end-to-end encryption, ensuring the security of user communications.

In addition to the username feature, WhatsApp is also introducing a new reply bar feature that will empower users to send images, videos, and GIFs seamlessly when viewing images or videos within a conversation.

WhatsApp has been actively and consistently rolling out new features, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing user experiences. Recent additions include Telegram-like Channels, the launch of a native app for iPad users, and the introduction of UPI payments for business owners, among other enhancements. These continuous updates underscore WhatsApp’s dedication to remaining a cutting-edge communication platform.