WhatsApp is finally working on something users have wanted for a long time; usernames. While this feature is still under development, signs of it have already been spotted in the latest TestFlight beta for iOS.
You Will Soon Be Able to Connect on WhatsApp Without Sharing Your Number
According to WABetaInfo, the new WhatsApp usernames feature will let you create a unique handle, similar to what you see on Telegram or Signal. Once it’s available, you’ll be able to give people your username instead of your phone number, a big privacy win.
This change is aimed at keeping your phone number private, especially when connecting with new contacts or joining groups.
How Will WhatsApp Usernames Work?
Here’s what we know so far from the beta build:
- Your username will show up instead of your phone number when someone messages you without already having your number.
- Usernames must include at least one letter, so all-numeric names won’t work.
- You can use lowercase letters (a–z), numbers (0–9), periods, and underscores.
- Usernames cannot begin with “www.” to avoid confusion with websites.
- WhatsApp will confirm your username with a little confetti animation once it’s accepted.
Once set, your username will be visible in chats and groups. And if you change it later, WhatsApp will notify others in the chat just like it does for profile photo or number updates.
Username Availability & Web Support
A future update for WhatsApp Web will also let users check if a specific username is available before setting it.
Related: WhatsApp Not Working on Your iPhone? This Could Be Why
When Will It Launch?
The username feature hasn’t launched yet — not even for beta users — but its presence in the app’s code means it’s likely coming soon. This follows other big WhatsApp updates like its iPad app rollout and password-protected chats.
Related: Stop WhatsApp Spam: How to Block High Volumes of Unknown Messages
Final Thoughts
This upcoming feature could be a game changer for WhatsApp privacy and user experience. If you’re someone who wants to keep your phone number private, the arrival of usernames will be a welcome update.
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