Meta-owned WhatsApp has introduced a privacy update that lets users interact without disclosing their personal phone numbers. Starting this week, the app is allowing global users to reserve unique usernames, a move intended to provide greater control over personal data.
By utilizing a chosen username rather than a phone number, users can contact classmates, neighbors, and community members while keeping their private contact information secure. WhatsApp noted that sharing a phone number often feels invasive, and this update aims to simplify secure communication for its three billion global users.
The system is intentionally private; it does not feature a searchable directory, meaning users must share their exact username to be reached. To bolster safety, an optional username key can be activated, requiring new contacts to input a code before sending a message. A generator is also available to help users select unique identifiers.
For businesses and creators, Meta allows the use of existing Instagram or Facebook handles to ensure brand consistency across platforms. This feature is currently being released in stages, and users can check for availability by visiting Settings, selecting Account, and navigating to the Username section.
