WhatsApp Introduces Usernames for Private Messaging Experience

News Desk
Islamabad: Meta-owned WhatsApp is set to introduce a new feature allowing users to chat without revealing their phone numbers, enhancing privacy and improving the messaging experience. Currently in testing within the 2.24.18.2 beta version for Android, this update will enable users to communicate using unique usernames instead of phone numbers.
Once fully implemented, users will create a username linked to their WhatsApp account, which they can share with others to start conversations, eliminating the need to exchange phone numbers. However, phone numbers will still be visible for contacts already saved.
Additionally, a new anti-spam measure in the beta version will require users to enter a PIN (at least four digits) before initiating chats with individuals they haven’t previously interacted with, even if they know the username.
Although the timeline for these features to be available beyond the beta phase is uncertain, reports suggest they may not roll out until the end of the year.
In related news, WhatsApp is also developing a “Reshare Status Updates” feature, similar to Instagram’s functionality, allowing users to easily share status updates where they have been mentioned with their contacts.