In a landmark privacy update, WhatsApp is set to roll out a new feature that will let users connect and chat without revealing their phone numbers. This long-awaited change marks a major shift in how people use the world’s most popular messaging app—making conversations more private, secure, and convenient, especially for communities, businesses, and online groups.
In a major shift in how privacy is handled on the platform, WhatsApp is testing a new username system that will let users communicate without exposing their phone numbers. Under the new approach, users may set a unique handle (or username) which can be used to find or message others—without needing to know their phone number.
This change marks one of the boldest updates in WhatsApp’s history, altering the app’s core identity mechanics and aligning more closely with modern privacy expectations.
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In select beta versions for both Android and iOS, some users are already seeing the option to set a username instead of—or alongside—their phone number. This username functions as an alias that others can use to initiate chats without revealing the actual number. The phone number will still be required during registration, but it may no longer need to be disclosed in everyday interactions.
To prevent confusion or duplication, the system reportedly includes checks for username availability and rules for formatting. Handles must contain at least one letter and may include lowercase letters, digits, periods, or underscores. These constraints aim to maintain clarity and consistency across the platform.
When someone starts a chat using a username, only the alias is shown—not the underlying phone number—unless both users already have each other saved as contacts. In group chats and public interactions, the username could replace number displays to shield users from unwanted exposure.
One of the biggest motivations is reducing spam, harassment, and unwanted messages. By hiding personal numbers, WhatsApp can allow safer interactions—especially with strangers, businesses, or in public group settings.
WhatsApp has long relied on phone numbers as primary identifiers. Moving toward usernames signals an evolution in how digital identities are handled—giving users more control and flexibility without depending solely on their mobile number.
With a username system, users may feel more comfortable joining groups or interacting with businesses without exposing personal contact details. This could improve trust, especially in regions or contexts where privacy is critical.
Other messaging platforms already support usernames or handles. Introducing this feature helps WhatsApp remain competitive and respond to user demand for more privacy-conscious options.
For residents in the UAE, this feature could make a notable difference in daily communication, especially in professional, social, or community groups where users may wish to maintain privacy. It could also affect how businesses, influencers, or service providers operate—allowing them to promote a username rather than a number to engage customers.
Furthermore, such a shift aligns well with regional emphasis on privacy, data protection, and digital identity control. As WhatsApp is widely used across the UAE and the Gulf, these changes may reverberate quickly among users, businesses, and digital service norms.
While there is no confirmed public release date yet, the presence of the feature in beta builds suggests a broader rollout could come soon. WhatsApp is reportedly testing username availability mechanics, conflict resolution, and alias verification. A phased rollout is likely, so readying infrastructure and user support will be crucial.
Once launched, users may receive prompts to select their username or have a limited window to reserve a name. Over time, legacy number displays may gradually shift or phase out in favour of alias-based communication as more users adopt the feature.
