WhatsApp has announced the introduction of usernames, a long-awaited feature designed to give users an additional layer of privacy by enabling them to connect without revealing their phone numbers.
The Meta-owned messaging platform said users can begin reserving their preferred usernames this week, ahead of the feature’s full rollout later this year.
In an announcement, WhatsApp said the new feature is intended to make it easier for people to communicate while keeping their personal phone numbers private.
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“Your phone number is personal, and sometimes you want to connect without handing it over. That’s why we’re introducing usernames for WhatsApp,” the company said. MobileApps & Add-Ons
According to WhatsApp, reserving a username takes only a few seconds. Users who have updated to the latest version of the app can access the option by navigating to Settings > Account > Username.
The company noted that although usernames can now be reserved, the feature will become available for broader use later this year.
The move brings WhatsApp closer to other messaging platforms such as Telegram, Signal and Discord, which already allow users to connect using usernames rather than phone numbers.
The feature is expected to improve user privacy, particularly when interacting with people outside existing contact lists, joining communities or engaging in business conversations where sharing a personal phone number may not be desirable. CommunicationsEquipment