WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform, is on the brink of a significant shift! Notorious for requiring phone numbers as the sole identity for accounts, it appears that the app is now leaning towards the integration of usernames.
As per the latest beta version of WhatsApp, it's evident that the introduction of usernames might be on the horizon, as reported by WABetaInfo. The report suggests that this new username feature would be clearly visible in the Profile section within the app's Settings. TechCrunch separately corroborated this information, noting references to the username field within the coding of the most recent Android application.
📝 WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.11.15: what's new?
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) May 24, 2023
WhatsApp is working on a feature to set up a WhatsApp username, and it will be available in a future update of the app!https://t.co/2yMpvlvkdo pic.twitter.com/s60sQdy9jP
The mechanisms that the Meta-owned messaging giant would employ to enable its 2 billion users to select usernames remain undisclosed. Further details surrounding this feature remain shrouded in mystery, as the company has yet to provide any official comment.
WhatsApp's competitor, Telegram, has already paved the way in user privacy, allowing individuals to mask their contacts and display usernames instead. In 2022, Telegram even initiated auctions for premium usernames based on the TON blockchain. As WhatsApp moves in this direction, it's intriguing to ponder how the platform will handle claims for premium usernames and what protective measures will be enforced.
Currently, WhatsApp's group and community users can readily access each other's phone numbers. With the new username feature, it's anticipated that users will have the option to hide their contact details from those outside their saved contacts.
Earlier this month, WhatsApp raised the bar for user privacy by enabling the ability to conceal and secure individual conversations. Users can unlock these private dialogues using either biometric authentication or a password.
