WhatsApp Tests Username Feature to Replace Phone Numbers in Major Privacy Update

WhatsApp is reportedly testing username feature to replace phone numbers in a major privacy update.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that WhatsApp is testing a groundbreaking feature that could allow users to connect using unique usernames instead of phone numbers, a move poised to become the platform’s biggest privacy upgrade yet.

According to reports, the feature is currently available to selected users in WhatsApp’s beta testing program. It will enable people to chat, join groups, or interact with businesses using usernames rather than their phone numbers.

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The innovation aims to strengthen user privacy and control, especially in large group chats or business interactions where revealing personal numbers may feel intrusive.

Leaked screenshots published by Vanguard show a new “Username” field in user profiles, allowing users to create handles and choose whether to hide their phone numbers.

This development aligns WhatsApp more closely with social platforms such as Instagram, Telegram, and X (formerly Twitter), where usernames serve as the primary means of identification. However, experts have warned about possible risks like username squatting and impersonation.

To prevent abuse, WhatsApp is reportedly building verification measures to ensure authenticity and protect users from fraud.

If the test rollout proves successful, the username feature could fundamentally change how more than two billion users connect on WhatsApp, shifting the focus from numbers to names.

As of now, the Meta-owned messaging platform has not disclosed when the feature will be officially released to the public.