WhatsApp To Introduce Option To Hide Your Contact Number
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WhatsApp is reportedly working on a significant privacy upgrade that will allow users to hide their phone numbers by setting up unique usernames. The upcoming feature was recently spotted in the app’s beta version by WABetaInfo, indicating that WhatsApp is actively testing the change.
Once rolled out, this functionality could be a turning point for those who want to maintain privacy while still being reachable through the messaging platform.
Usernames: A New Way to Connect on WhatsApp
The new feature will enable users to create a unique username, similar to platforms like Telegram and Instagram. Instead of sharing your phone number, you’ll be able to connect with others using just this username.
This will be especially handy in group chats or when meeting new contacts, as people can initiate conversations without needing your number. However, it's important to note that the rollout will likely be gradual and may not be available to everyone immediately.
WhatsApp’s Username Rules and Notifications
To keep things secure and user-friendly, WhatsApp has introduced certain guidelines for usernames. Each username must contain at least one letter and cannot start with “www.” Only lowercase letters, numbers, underscores, and periods are allowed.
Once a username is successfully created, users will see a confetti animation as confirmation. If you decide to change your username later, WhatsApp will notify others in the chat with a system message about the update — maintaining transparency in conversations.
Why This Matters for Privacy
This new feature is being welcomed as a step forward in addressing long-standing privacy concerns. For years, users — particularly women — have been hesitant to share their phone numbers due to the risk of spam, unwanted messages, or even harassment.
With usernames, users will finally have a safer alternative for initiating conversations without exposing personal details like phone numbers.
Enhanced Protection Against Scams and Spam
By reducing the need to share phone numbers, the username feature also promises to cut down on scams and spam. With financial frauds and phishing scams becoming more frequent via messaging apps, hiding one’s number could offer an added layer of protection.
While the feature is still under development, its appearance in the beta version suggests that WhatsApp may roll it out to the public sooner rather than later.
Once rolled out, this functionality could be a turning point for those who want to maintain privacy while still being reachable through the messaging platform.
Usernames: A New Way to Connect on WhatsApp
The new feature will enable users to create a unique username, similar to platforms like Telegram and Instagram. Instead of sharing your phone number, you’ll be able to connect with others using just this username.
This will be especially handy in group chats or when meeting new contacts, as people can initiate conversations without needing your number. However, it's important to note that the rollout will likely be gradual and may not be available to everyone immediately.
WhatsApp’s Username Rules and Notifications
To keep things secure and user-friendly, WhatsApp has introduced certain guidelines for usernames. Each username must contain at least one letter and cannot start with “www.” Only lowercase letters, numbers, underscores, and periods are allowed.
Once a username is successfully created, users will see a confetti animation as confirmation. If you decide to change your username later, WhatsApp will notify others in the chat with a system message about the update — maintaining transparency in conversations.
Why This Matters for Privacy
This new feature is being welcomed as a step forward in addressing long-standing privacy concerns. For years, users — particularly women — have been hesitant to share their phone numbers due to the risk of spam, unwanted messages, or even harassment.
With usernames, users will finally have a safer alternative for initiating conversations without exposing personal details like phone numbers.
Enhanced Protection Against Scams and Spam
By reducing the need to share phone numbers, the username feature also promises to cut down on scams and spam. With financial frauds and phishing scams becoming more frequent via messaging apps, hiding one’s number could offer an added layer of protection.
While the feature is still under development, its appearance in the beta version suggests that WhatsApp may roll it out to the public sooner rather than later.
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