WhatsApp will allow users to go by unique usernames instead of phone numbers for privacy.
On Monday, June 29, the Meta-owned platform revealed that it has begu letting users reserve unique usernames before a wider rollout later this year, when people will be able to choose to be contacted by their handles only.
A brand new privacy feature for WhatsApp
WhatsApp said that the new feature was designed as a privacy tool with no public directory of usernames and no autocomplete suggestions, meaning users will need to know someone's exact username to reach them for the first time.
The platform offers end-to-end encrypted communications across smartphones, tablets and desktop computers. Until now, it has allowed users to be contacted by anyone who has their phone number.
Without sharing the details about the timeline, the platform said that over the "coming months", users will get the option to be found and contacted only by their username, and not their numbers.
WhatsApp's current privacy features
WhatsApp's current privacy settings are limited to blocking individual users and silencing unknown callers.
The blog said that the feature is a key change to help connect with new people without providing them with your phone number and would come in handy during group chat settings, where you don't know the majority of the people.
The new feature comes with a username generator, which would help users select the perfect username for their WhatsApp.
The app is widely popular in Asia, Europe and much of the world except the US, where the people prefer text messaging over WhatsApp.
Companies can claim their usernames
Companies, organisations and creators with existing accounts on Meta’s social media platforms will get the chance to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp.
Moreover, to have more control over who can reach the user with the new username, WhatsApp has built an optional username key that "others will need to know to message you".
"Once we launch usernames, when you message a person or business for the first time they will no longer see your phone number, if you enabled your username," the blog read.
The company urged netizens to "make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp downloaded and keep an eye on your app".
How to reserve a username on WhatsApp?
Reserving usernames on WhatsApp is quite an easy task. Here's what the users need to do:
1. First open WhatsApp
2. Go to Settings
3. Click on the "Account" option
4. Open "Username"
Usernames need to be three to 35 characters.
To prevent impersonation, WhatsApp will hold back usernames for high-profile people or groups, such as celebrities, public figures and government entities.
The tech giant said that people will be able to remove or change their usernames at any time.
Will WhatsApp be banned for under-16s in the UK?
The minimum age for using the platform is 13, and the messaging app will not be included in the UK's upcoming social media ban for under 16 year old, set to be implemented next year.
With the tagline "Same number, New name, More privacy", the blog featured a promo video for the new username feature starring Anthony Joshua.
