WhatsApp to introduce usernames to hide phone numbers from contacts
WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows users to use unique usernames instead of sharing their mobile numbers with new contacts. The rollout will be gradual and aims to improve user privacy on the messaging platform.
Amalgamated from Al Jazeera (opens in new tab), CNET (opens in new tab), Al Jazeera (opens in new tab), NY Post (opens in new tab)
WhatsApp is introducing a username feature designed to allow users to hide their phone numbers from others on the messaging platform. Reports from Al Jazeera and CNET indicate that the update will allow individuals to use unique usernames when interacting with new contacts, rather than sharing personal mobile digits.
The rollout of this functionality will occur gradually across different regions. According to reports, the feature allows users to reserve specific names, which aims to improve privacy by decoupling a user's identity from their phone number. The platform is also expected to provide options for generating usernames automatically and may allow accounts to be linked with existing Facebook and Instagram profiles.
This development follows previous instances of scrutiny regarding WhatsApp’s data policies. While some coverage highlights the move as a significant shift in privacy settings, other reports focus on the practical utility of the feature for users who wish to avoid sharing personal contact information during initial interactions. The implementation aims to address persistent demand for more private communication options within the app's large global user base.
Why this matters
This move addresses a long-standing friction point where users are required to share their phone numbers to communicate on WhatsApp. By providing an alternative, the platform seeks to reduce the necessity of sharing personal data with new contacts and potentially compete more effectively against privacy-focused alternatives.
What's confirmed / what isn't
Multiple outlets confirm the rollout of usernames and their role in masking phone numbers. While some reports characterize the move as a major shift in privacy, the specific scope of its impact is reported differently across sources; however, the core functionality remains consistent.
Background
WhatsApp is a global instant messaging service owned by Meta that currently uses mobile phone numbers as primary identifiers for user accounts.