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WhatsApp rolls out usernames to let users chat without sharing phone numbers

From Hindustan Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature allowing users to reserve unique usernames, enabling communication without sharing phone numbers.
  • The optional feature aims to enhance privacy by reducing spam and giving users more control over contact initiation.
  • This update also allows creators and businesses to maintain consistent branding across Meta platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

WhatsApp is introducing a significant privacy upgrade with its new username feature, allowing users to create a unique handle. This move aims to let people connect without revealing their phone numbers, a major shift for the messaging platform.

The move marks one of WhatsApp's biggest privacy-focused changes, giving users the option to start conversations using a username instead of sharing their mobile number.

— WhatsAppDescribing the significance of the new username feature.

The company announced the feature in a blog post, stating that the rollout will be gradual. Users can check for availability by updating their app and navigating to Settings > Account > Username. Early reservation is encouraged due to WhatsApp's massive user base of over three billion people.

Unlike other social media platforms, WhatsApp will not feature a searchable username directory. Instead, users can only contact someone if they know their exact username. This design choice is intended to minimize spam and unsolicited messages, giving users greater control over who can reach them. An optional username key will also be available for an added layer of protection.

The company said this approach is designed to reduce spam and unsolicited messages while giving users greater control over who can reach them.

— WhatsAppExplaining the privacy benefits of the username system.

The new system is also designed to benefit creators and businesses, allowing them to reserve the same username used on Instagram or Facebook. This facilitates consistent branding across Meta's ecosystem. WhatsApp emphasizes that the username feature is entirely optional.

WhatsApp clarified that usernames are entirely optional.

— WhatsAppHighlighting the optional nature of the new feature.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hindustan Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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