WhatsApp is said to be testing a new feature, which will provide users with the option to pick a special username, thus enhancing user privacy. On the basis of WhatsApp update tracker WABetaInfo, the feature is part of the most recent beta version of iOS. It will help users to communicate without revealing their phone numbers, thus enhancing security. An update for Web WhatsApp is also underway that will allow users to check whether a username is available and choose their preferred handle before the official release.
The username feature will be rolled out globally in the next few weeks.
WhatsApp: How the Username System Will Work
As per the report, WhatsApp will no longer be using phone numbers as its primary method of identification. Rather, users will be allowed to select a special username that meets certain criteria:
- Usernames should have at least one alphabetic character, which will exclude usernames that consist only of numbers or symbols.
- Only specific characters will be allowed:
- Lowercase letters (a–z)
- Digits (0–9)
- Periods (.)
- Underscores (_)
The report added that these criteria will make all usernames have a uniform and predictable format.
Furthermore:
- WhatsApp will restrict using usernames that are already stored in a user’s contact list or are being used by someone else as there cannot be a duplicate username.
- WhatsApp usernames can only be 3 to 30 characters long.
- To avoid confusion and decrease the chances of scams:
- Usernames cannot include domains (like .com)
- Cannot start or end with a period
- No consecutive periods are allowed
After a username satisfies all the specified requirements, it will show up on a confirmation screen. The screen will feature a celebratory animation of confetti and will inform you that the username was successfully linked to the user’s account. From then on, users who don’t have the user’s phone number will see the username instead both when starting a new conversation and in group conversations.
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Privacy and Notification Features
A distinct feature of this update is that it relies on user awareness and privacy. Once a user changes their username, a system message will be shown in current chats, informing all the users in real time. This feature is meant to provide openness and reduce misunderstandings when communicating.
Once a user chooses an eligible username, the above confirmation screen with the celebratory animation will be shown, indicating successful setup. The username will then replace the phone number in private and group chats, thus providing greater anonymity, especially when dealing with unknown contacts.