WhatsApp launches ‘username’ feature to communicate without phone number

Kathmandu. Meta-owned WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a new username feature that allows users to contact without showing a phone number.

According to the company, this feature will be available to users around the world in a phased manner in the coming months. Currently, users will be able to pre-save their preferred username. This facility will be used after it is fully implemented.

WhatsApp has said in its official blog that this update has been brought with the aim of increasing the privacy of the user. Phone numbers will no longer be visible in conversations with strangers, large group chats and businesses.

The company says, “When meeting a new person, giving a phone number can seem like a big deal. So now the phone number will not be mandatory only for communication. ’

Keeping in mind the security, the company is also bringing an additional security system called ‘Username Key’. For this, you will need not only a username but also an additional code to contact someone.

At the same time, the company claims that the username system does not have a public directory or search suggestion, so the risk of unnecessary messages is reduced. According to the company, usernames can be kept up to 35 characters, in which letters, numbers, dots and underscores can be used. Users can also change or remove the username if they wish.

Businesses and creators will also be able to protect the same username used on platforms under their Meta platform, such as Instagram and Facebook. This feature will be expanded in a phased manner and in-app notifications will be sent to users once they become available. ANI