WhatsApp is rolling out a new username feature that will allow users to connect with others without sharing their personal phone numbers.
The Meta-owned messaging platform has started introducing the feature to a limited number of users, with a wider release expected soon.
The feature is currently available to a limited number of users, allowing them to start new chats without sharing their phone numbers. However, a phone number will still be required to create and use a WhatsApp account.
How to reserve a username on WhatsApp?
The new feature is designed to help users keep their personal phone numbers more private when communicating with others.
According to a report by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp began testing the username feature for a period before making it available to a limited group of users. The feature is accessible to some beta testers as well as selected regular users.
Eligible users may see a new banner on their WhatsApp home screen confirming that the username feature is available on their mobile app.
The report said users will be able to share their unique usernames with new contacts instead of providing their phone numbers.
Since WhatsApp has started the rollout process, the feature is expected to become available to all users soon.
The username feature will be completely optional. Users can choose to continue using only their phone number, or they can use both a phone number and a username.
WhatsApp will also notify users through a system message if an existing contact creates or changes their username.
Meta has not revealed how many times a user can change their username, but the company has indicated that some restrictions will be in place.
