BREAKING: WhatsApp to Introduce Usernames Instead of Phone Numbers

WhatsApp has announced the introduction of usernames, a new feature designed to allow users connect with others without sharing their personal phone numbers.

The messaging platform disclosed that users can begin reserving their preferred usernames ahead of the official rollout of the feature later this year.

Announcing the update, WhatsApp said:

“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 added:

“starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch the feature. It takes just a few seconds, make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp and then go to Settings > Account > Username.”

The upcoming feature is expected to give users an additional layer of privacy by allowing them to identify and connect with others through unique usernames instead of phone numbers.

To reserve a username, users are advised to update to the latest version of WhatsApp and navigate to Settings > Account > Username.

The move aligns WhatsApp with other major social media and messaging platforms that already use usernames as a primary means of identification, while enhancing user privacy and convenience.