3 days ago
WhatsApp to introduce usernames? Here's what you need to know
Soon, you may no longer need to give out your phone number to chat on WhatsApp.
WhatsApp is working on a long-anticipated feature: usernames — allowing people to connect with others without sharing their actual phone numbers. This brings WhatsApp closer to platforms like Telegram and Signal, which have long offered similar privacy-centric options.
According to findings from WABetaInfo (via Tecnoblog), traces of the feature were recently discovered in the TestFlight beta version for iOS. While it's not yet live for testers, WhatsApp appears to be building the system's framework and interface in the background.
The introduction of usernames could mark a significant privacy milestone for WhatsApp, giving users greater control over who sees their personal information. Instead of displaying a phone number by default, the app will soon allow people to identify one another via unique handles.
How will it work?
Initial details reveal that users will be able to create a unique username consisting of lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. There are a few key rules:
Usernames must contain at least one letter, to prevent all-number or symbol-based handles.
Usernames can't start with " to avoid confusion with websites.
A confetti animation will confirm a successful username creation.
Once live, your username will appear in chats and groups in place of your phone number — especially when people don't already have your number saved. This could be particularly useful for engaging in public groups or interacting with businesses and communities.
WhatsApp plans to treat username updates the same way it handles profile photo or number changes — by notifying others in a system message within chats. This ensures transparency and helps contacts keep up with changes.
Another neat addition: the web version of WhatsApp will eventually include a tool to check username availability before you commit to one.
When will it launch?
As of now, there's no official release date. But the fact that development strings are already showing up in recent beta builds is a strong indicator that the feature could be coming soon — part of a string of recent updates including the long-awaited release of WhatsApp's iPad app.
With usernames, WhatsApp is taking a clear step toward more private and flexible communication, while catching up with its competitors in the modern messaging space.
