Meta-owned messaging platform, WhatsApp, has announced a major privacy update that will allow users to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers, unveiling a new username feature designed to enhance security and protect personal information.
The company announced on Monday that the feature will enable users to create unique usernames that can be shared instead of their mobile phone numbers when chatting with family, friends, businesses, and organisations.
According to WhatsApp, the policy is aimed at strengthening users’ privacy by ensuring phone numbers are no longer automatically disclosed in situations such as joining large group chats or initiating conversations with individuals or businesses for the first time.
“Designed to protect the privacy of your phone number,” the company said in a statement, adding that the update gives users greater control over how they are identified on the platform.
WhatsApp explained that the username system will operate differently from traditional social media platforms, as there will be no public directory or search function for usernames.
“There’s no directory to browse and no suggestions, so people need to know your exact username to contact you,” the company stated.
With more than three billion users worldwide, Meta acknowledged that not everyone would be able to secure their preferred username because of the platform’s massive user base.
To ensure a smooth transition, the company said username reservations would be introduced gradually around the world over the coming months. Users will receive notifications within the app when the feature becomes available in their respective countries.
WhatsApp also announced that creators, small businesses, and organisations will be allowed to reserve usernames already in use on other Meta platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, enabling them to maintain consistent digital identities across the company’s services.