Messaging giant WhatsApp is preparing one of the biggest changes in its history, with users soon expected to connect and chat without revealing their personal phone numbers.
The platform is rolling out a new privacy-focused feature that introduces usernames — a move that could dramatically change how millions of people interact online. The update will allow users to create unique public handles, similar to those used on platforms like Telegram and Instagram, instead of exchanging mobile numbers when starting conversations.
According to reports from TelecomTalk, the feature is currently being tested among a limited number of users across Android, iOS, web and desktop versions of the application ahead of a wider global rollout expected later this year.
The development marks a major shift for the Meta-owned platform, which has traditionally relied on phone numbers as the foundation of its messaging system since launch.
Once the feature becomes available, users will reportedly see a new “Username” option within the profile settings section of the app. After selecting a unique handle, they will be able to share that username with new contacts instead of giving out their personal mobile numbers.
When a conversation is initiated through a username, only the handle will appear publicly, while the linked phone number remains hidden from the other user.
The update is expected to particularly benefit businesses, online sellers and content creators who frequently communicate with strangers online but may prefer to keep their private numbers confidential.
Members of large public groups are also likely to welcome the added layer of privacy, especially in communities where users interact with hundreds of unknown participants.
Despite the major privacy changes, WhatsApp has reportedly clarified that phone numbers will still remain necessary behind the scenes for account verification, login authentication and recovery purposes.
The company also emphasized that usernames will remain optional, meaning users who prefer the traditional phone-number-based system can continue using the app without making any changes.
Reports further indicate that each account will support only one username at a time, although users may be allowed to change their handles later without affecting chats, groups or account history.
To reduce impersonation and fake accounts, WhatsApp is expected to introduce strict username rules. Usernames will reportedly be limited to between three and 35 characters and must contain at least one letter.
Only lowercase letters, numbers, periods and underscores will be allowed. Handles will also be blocked from starting with “www.” or ending with website-style extensions such as “.com” or “.net”.
Earlier beta reports have additionally suggested that WhatsApp could eventually integrate usernames with Meta’s wider account ecosystem, potentially allowing users to claim handles already linked to their Facebook or Instagram accounts through Meta’s Accounts Centre verification system.
However, the possibility of cross-platform username integration has already sparked debate among privacy experts, with some warning that linking identities across multiple apps could raise fresh concerns around user tracking and online anonymity.
The update is expected to place WhatsApp in more direct competition with rival messaging apps that already support username-based communication, as the company pushes to strengthen both user privacy and platform convenience.
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