WhatsApp to Introduce Usernames for Private Messaging

WhatsApp is introducing a new way to add and chat with contacts without sharing your phone number. The feature, which will launch later this year, is designed to make the communications platform 'even more private,' allowing users to keep their phone numbers concealed from people who aren't already in their contacts. Usernames are available to reserve starting this week, giving users time to claim a specific handle they may already be using elsewhere before the WhatsApp username feature officially launches.

The username launch will be rolling out gradually over the coming months, and users will be notified when the feature is available in the app. By introducing usernames, WhatsApp aims to provide users with more control over their personal information and enhance their overall messaging experience. With this feature, users will be able to share a unique identifier with others, rather than their phone number, making it easier to connect with new people while maintaining their privacy.

The rollout of usernames is part of WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to improve user experience and security. As the feature becomes available, users can expect to see a new option to create and manage their usernames within the app. Why this matters: The introduction of usernames on WhatsApp has significant implications for the broader messaging and social media landscape.

By allowing users to chat without sharing their phone numbers, WhatsApp is enhancing user privacy and security, which could lead to increased adoption and usage of the platform. For developers and businesses, this feature could enable new use cases for customer engagement and support. For consumers, this means more control over their personal information and a more seamless messaging experience.

However, questions remain about how WhatsApp will handle issues such as username squatting and verification, and how the feature will be integrated with existing WhatsApp functionality.