WhatsApp testing new username feature

If you want to hide your contact number and don’t want anyone to see it, the WhatsApp will soon have you covered with its new feature.

The messaging app will soon introduce usernames, which will allow users to hid their phone numbers.

WhatsApp earlier hinted at such a feature coming in the near future.

Now, according to WABetaInfo, these plans, albeit delayed, are not yet scrapped.

The social app is still working on a feature that will let users create unique usernames, enhancing privacy by allowing messaging without sharing phone numbers.

This feature is currently in development and is expected to be available in future update of the web client.

Once it’s active on the web client, I expect it to arrive on Android and iOS as well, so stay tuned.

The goal is to enable users to personalize their profiles and connect using a unique identifier.

This will add an extra layer of privacy and convenience, as users can find and connect with friends, family, and contacts without sharing phone numbers.

The feature will allow users to select a unique username, provided it hasn’t been taken.

Unlike platforms like Discord, WhatsApp usernames will be unique without a discriminator or tag, ensuring no confusion or duplication.

Users will check the availability of their desired username during setup, securing a unique identifier.

However, existing contacts who have your phone number will still be able to find you on WhatsApp. Once a username is set, only those who know your username or phone number can contact you.