WhatsApp to Let Users Chat Using Unique Usernames Instead of Numbers
Say goodbye to phone numbers in WhatsApp chats. The new username system improves privacy with unique handles and real-time notifications for all contacts.
image for illustrative purpose
WhatsApp is developing a new functionality that allows users to create unique usernames, enabling chats without sharing phone numbers. The feature, spotted in the latest iOS beta by WhatsApp update tracker WABetaInfo, aims to enhance user privacy by replacing phone numbers with personalized handles.
In addition to the mobile app update, WhatsApp Web is also expected to receive improvements soon. The web version will let users check username availability and set their preferred username before the feature is officially launched. The rollout of this update is anticipated in the upcoming weeks.
The platform plans to shift away from phone numbers as the primary user ID. Instead, individuals can select usernames that adhere to specific rules designed to maintain uniformity. Each username must include at least one letter and can contain lowercase alphabets (a–z), digits (0–9), periods, and underscores.
Usernames must be between 3 and 30 characters long. To prevent impersonation and confusion, usernames cannot contain domain names like ".com," start or end with a period, or have consecutive periods. Additionally, the system will block usernames already present in a user's contacts or used by others, avoiding duplicates.
After a username meets all the set criteria, users will receive a confirmation with an animated celebration. From that point, the username replaces the phone number for new conversations and within group chats, visible to those without the user’s phone number.
This update focuses heavily on user transparency. When a username is changed, a system message will appear in all active chats, informing participants immediately to prevent misunderstandings. This keeps users aware of changes in identity representation.+
Once confirmed, the username will appear instead of the phone number across private and group discussions. This measure provides better anonymity, particularly when communicating with contacts not saved in the user’s phonebook.
