WhatsApp is introducing a new feature allowing users to create unique usernames, eliminating the need to share phone numbers for connections. This privacy-focused update will roll out globally in the coming months, and users can reserve their usernames now through the app's settings.
Millions of users of Meta-owned messenger WhatsApp will now no longer need to share phone numbers, the company announced on Monday, adding that each user will be able to pick unique usernames to share with others. "Your phone number is personal and sometimes you want to connect without handing it over, that's why we're introducing usernames for WhatsApp," the statement said.
“Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch the feature. It takes just a few seconds, make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp and then go to Settings > Account > Username," it stated.
According to the company cited by AFP, limiting access to phone numbers would prevent them from being automatically shared in situations like joining a big group chat or texting a person or corporation for the first time. Additionally, Meta stated that "there's no directory to browse and no suggestions, so people need to know your exact username to contact you."
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The business also stated that it will progressively implement this new service globally "over the coming months," alerting consumers in each nation as it opens.
This occurs only days after Meta appointed Kunal Shah, the creator of the Indian finance company CRED, as the new global head of WhatsApp, one of the most notable hires of an Indian entrepreneur in the global technology industry.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the hiring in a Facebook post, praising Shah's entrepreneurial track record. "Kunal Shah will succeed Meta as WhatsApp's next chief. Kunal turned CRED into one of India's most prominent technological businesses, and he offers the building mindset and global perspective that will be useful in heading the world's largest messaging service. "I look forward to working with Kunal to continue to make WhatsApp the best service for billions of people and millions of businesses," Zuckerberg said.
