WhatsApp continues with its plans to allow people to hide their phone numbers and enter usernames. According to WABetaInfo, the company continues to work on the implementation of unique usernames, which will improve privacy by allowing sending messages without sharing phone numbers.
It is expected that this feature will be available first in a future update of WhatsApp Web and later on Android and iOS. The goal is to allow users to customize their profiles and connect using a unique identifier. This new feature will add an extra layer of privacy and convenience, as users will be able to communicate with friends, family, and other contacts without the need to share their numbers.
The WABetaInfo report states that users will be able to select a unique username as long as someone else hasn’t taken it before. Unlike platforms like Discord, usernames on WhatsApp will be unique, without discriminator or tag, which will prevent confusion and duplications. However, it is currently unknown when this feature will be available.
Users will be able to check the availability of their desired username during setup. However, existing contacts who have their phone number will still be able to find them on WhatsApp. Once the username is set up, only those who know their username or phone number will be able to contact them, adding more control over who can start conversations.
