In a move aimed at enhancing user privacy and convenience, WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new username-based system that could allow users to connect and chat without revealing their phone numbers.
According to reports by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is developing a username feature that will enable users to communicate without sharing their personal phone numbers. This marks a significant shift from the platform’s traditional phone number-based identity system.
The feature is expected to give users greater control over their personal information, making it easier to interact with new contacts while maintaining privacy. In an era where data security is increasingly important, this update could address one of the most common concerns among messaging app users.
The new feature has reportedly been spotted in the beta version of WhatsApp for iOS (version 26.1.10.70). Once rolled out, users will have the option to create a unique username linked to their account.
After setting up a username, users can share it with others instead of their phone number. This allows conversations to begin without exposing sensitive contact details. The process is designed to be simple and user-friendly, guiding users step by step through the setup.
To check whether the feature is available, users can navigate to their profile settings within the app. If enabled, a new option to create a username will appear, making it easy to adopt the feature.
The report indicates that the username feature will be introduced gradually, with a phased rollout planned over the coming months. Initially, it will be available to select beta users before expanding to a wider audience.
This phased approach allows WhatsApp to test the feature, gather user feedback, and address any potential issues before a full-scale launch. It also ensures that the feature is stable and secure when it becomes widely available.
To maintain consistency and avoid misuse, WhatsApp has established a set of rules for creating usernames. These guidelines are designed to ensure clarity, uniqueness, and user safety.
Key restrictions include:
Allowed characters:
Additionally, usernames must be between 3 and 35 characters in length, ensuring they are both flexible and easy to remember.
A notable aspect of the username system is its integration across platforms owned by Meta, including Instagram and Facebook.
For a username to be claimed on WhatsApp, it must be available across all these platforms. This means users cannot select a username that is already in use on Instagram or Facebook unless they can verify ownership.
This cross-platform consistency is intended to create a unified identity for users across Meta’s ecosystem, simplifying account management and enhancing user experience.
If a desired username is already in use on Instagram or Facebook but belongs to the same user, WhatsApp allows verification through Meta’s Accounts Center.
By linking their accounts and confirming ownership, users can claim the same username on WhatsApp. However, if the username is owned by someone else on any Meta platform, it cannot be used.
This verification process helps prevent impersonation and ensures that usernames remain secure and authentic across platforms.
The introduction of usernames on WhatsApp brings it closer to features already offered by platforms like Telegram and Discord.
Both Telegram and Discord allow users to connect via usernames rather than phone numbers, providing greater flexibility and privacy. By adopting a similar approach, WhatsApp is aligning itself with evolving user expectations and industry trends.
The username feature could significantly transform how users interact on WhatsApp. By removing the need to share phone numbers, the platform becomes more accessible for professional networking, online communities, and casual interactions.
It also opens up new possibilities for businesses and creators who want to connect with audiences without revealing personal contact details. Moreover, the feature could reduce spam and unwanted contact sharing, improving overall user safety.
The move reflects WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance privacy and security. Over the years, the platform has introduced features such as end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and privacy controls.
The addition of usernames further strengthens its position as a secure messaging platform, giving users more control over how they connect and communicate.