WhatsApp, one of the most popular messaging apps, is preparing a new feature that will allow users to identify themselves with a username instead of their phone number.
???? WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.11.15: what's new?
WhatsApp is working on a feature to set up a WhatsApp username, and it will be available in a future update of the app!https://t.co/2yMpvlvkdo pic.twitter.com/s60sQdy9jP
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) May 24, 2023
The username feature has been discovered in the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android (version 2.23.11.15 beta), reports WABetaInfo. The feature will allow users to choose a unique username for their account, similar to the system used for e-mail addresses.
Until now, the phone number was the primary identifier on WhatsApp, and there was no way to hide it. Even when you shared your account via a QR code or link, your phone number was visible to the contacts you interacted with.
Like Telegram
With this new feature, similar to what already exists in Telegram, users will be able to communicate with other people through their username, without needing to share their phone number. In Telegram, for example, it is possible to contact other people using the “@” symbol followed by their username, without having access to their personal number.
The introduction of usernames on WhatsApp will enable users to better protect their privacy and control the personal information they share on the platform. It will also enable a more flexible form of identification and communication, similar to the experience provided by other messaging applications.
Although the implementation of this feature has not yet been officially confirmed, the fact that it was discovered in WhatsApp's beta version indicates that the company is working on its development.
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