WhatsApp: WhatsApp Is Introducing a Major Privacy Feature! Now You Can Chat Without Revealing Your Number—Here's How to Set It Up..
WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a major change to its platform. The company may soon launch a feature that will eliminate the need for users to share their mobile numbers with everyone. According to reports, WhatsApp is currently testing a "Username" feature.
This feature is currently being tested with a select group of Android and iOS users. Once released, it will allow people to connect with others using a unique username instead of their phone number.
**How will the new Username feature work?**
Under the new system, users will be able to create a unique username by navigating to the WhatsApp Settings menu. Subsequently, to initiate a conversation with someone, they will simply need to share that specific username.
If someone contacts you via your username, they will not be able to see your mobile number; only the username will be visible within the chat interface. This system will be quite similar to the username models currently used by Telegram and Instagram.
**Phone numbers will still be required**
However, WhatsApp is not completely doing away with phone numbers. According to the company, the mobile number will remain linked to the account in the background. Functions such as logging in, account recovery, and verification will still be handled using the phone number. In other words, the username will primarily serve to provide an additional layer of privacy during chats.
**Key highlights of the Username feature:**
* Strangers in group chats or direct messages will not be able to see your phone number.
* You can change your username whenever you wish; doing so will not affect your existing chats or data.
* Your phone number will remain linked for account login and recovery purposes, just as before, but it will remain hidden from other users.
* This feature is entirely optional. If you prefer not to create a username, you can continue using WhatsApp solely with your phone number, just as you do now.
**What are the rules for creating a Username?**
WhatsApp is rolling out this feature globally, and users in several countries have already gained access to it. Reports indicate that a username must be between 3 and 35 characters in length and must contain at least one letter. Only letters, numbers, periods, and underscores are permitted within the username.
**How to set up your WhatsApp Username?**
Open WhatsApp on your phone. On an Android phone, go to Settings by clicking on the three dots located at the top right corner; or, on an iPhone, tap on the Settings tab located at the bottom.
Click on your profile photo or name at the very top.
If you have received this feature, you will see a 'Username' option within the Profile Settings; tap on it.
Enter your desired username. WhatsApp will check whether that name is available or not. If it is available, save it.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
