WhatsApp users might soon connect with other people without necessarily sharing their phone numbers.
According to reports, the platform has started rolling out the new privacy features, which introduce usernames, enabling users to create a public identity similar to the ones used in platforms such as Telegram and Instagram.
This means that instead of exchanging mobile numbers, users will be able to simply give out their username when starting conversations with new contacts.
According to reports, the feature, which has been a long time coming, is currently being tested with a limited group of users across Android, iOS, web and desktop versions of the application before a wider rollout, which will happen later this year.
WhatsApp is set to introduce username -name based connections
Reports indicate that among the biggest beneficiaries will be businesses and online stores, since such accounts frequently interact with strangers online.
Public group members who may not want to expose their personal phone numbers, will also have the luxury of simply giving out their user names.
In the latest development, users will reportedly see a new “Username” option within the profile settings section of the app.
After selecting the unique username, users can begin sharing it instead of their phone number when connecting with other people.
When communication is initiated using the username, only the handle will be displayed publicly, while the linked phone number will remain hidden from the new contact.
According to reports, each account will support one username at a time, although users will reportedly be allowed to change their usernames later without affecting existing chats, groups, or account history.
