WhatsApp to Introduce Usernames So You Can Hide Your Phone Number and Increase Security

WhatsApp is preparing to launch a significant privacy update that will allow users to hide their phone numbers and use usernames instead. This upcoming feature aims to enhance user privacy and simplify the process of connecting with others without revealing personal contact information. It was recently spotted in beta development by WABetaInfo, a reliable source for WhatsApp-related news.

Under this new system, usernames will replace phone numbers as the primary means of identifying users, similar to how platforms like Telegram and Instagram operate. Users will be able to create a unique personal username, which will be displayed in place of their phone number. This change is expected to be particularly useful in group chats and when starting new conversations with people outside of one's contact list.

How the Username Feature Will Work?

Users will be able to create a custom username that appears in place of their phone number in conversations. Here are some important rules for creating a username:

• Usernames must contain at least one letter.
• They can only use lowercase letters (a-z), numbers (0-9), periods (.), and underscores (_).
• They cannot start with "www." to avoid confusion with websites.

After setting a username that meets these rules, a confirmation screen will appear with a celebration animation, confirming the username is active. From that point on, your username will show in chats and groups instead of your phone number.

If you decide to change your username later, WhatsApp will send a small notification message in your chats, just like it does when you change your profile photo or phone number.

WhatsApp Web Will Help You Check Username Availability

WhatsApp is also working on adding support for username availability checks on its web version. This means you'll be able to see if a username is already taken before trying to claim it. This small addition could help prevent confusion and streamline the process of finding a unique handle.

A Response to Privacy Concerns

Vihan Gulati, Tech & PR Expert told Goodreturns, "This is a step forward for privacy, as users will be able to communicate through usernames instead of phone numbers. Spam calls and messages have increased significantly, leading many people to maintain separate numbers for personal and professional use. With this update overall security will improve."

He also points out that WhatsApp and Instagram are both part of the Meta (formerly Facebook) family, and suggests that a unified username system across all three platforms could eventually be introduced to make connecting even easier.

For some users, especially women, the risk of receiving unwanted messages or calls has been a major issue. By allowing users to create a username instead, WhatsApp is giving people more control over what personal information they share.

While the feature isn't available to beta testers yet, WhatsApp is actively working on building the system and its interface and may soon be available to the public in the latest beta version.

WhatsApp has remained free for years while consistently adding new features that enhance the user experience. From disappearing messages to chat locks and companion device support, the app continues to evolve-without compromising its simple and user-friendly design.