WhatsApp to Let Users Chat with Usernames Instead of Phone Numbers in 2026

WhatsApp is getting ready for one of its biggest changes yet and it’s all about privacy. The popular Meta-owned messaging app will soon allow users to connect using usernames instead of phone numbers, starting in early 2026.

A Shift Toward Privacy

For over a decade, WhatsApp has identified users through their phone numbers. It’s a simple system that helps sync contacts and makes chatting as easy as sending a text. But it also comes with a downside every time you message someone new, you’re sharing a piece of personal information that can’t be changed: your number.

That’s all set to change in 2026. WhatsApp’s upcoming update will let users create unique usernames that can be used to find and message each other without revealing their phone numbers. This new option mirrors platforms like Instagram and X , allowing users to choose a handle that represents them while keeping their private details hidden.

How It Will Work

According to WhatsApp’s beta testing details, users will still need to verify their phone numbers when they register or set up their accounts. However, after that, they’ll be prompted to create a username their new public identifier on the platform.

The usernames will function as a safer way to connect, particularly for those who use WhatsApp for things like business, community groups, or public interactions. Instead of handing out phone numbers, users can simply share their chosen handle a feature that could also make WhatsApp’s upcoming business and community tools even more accessible.

A Broader Trend in Digital Communication

The move aligns with a broader trend among messaging apps that are redefining privacy in a hyper-connected world. Platforms like Telegram and Signal have already adopted similar systems, giving users more control over what personal data they share.

In regions like South Africa, where WhatsApp remains the primary tool for everything from work to neighbourhood chats, the update could make digital communication safer especially for women, young people, and small businesses who often face privacy concerns online.

What’s Next for Users

The feature is currently in beta testing for Android and iOS, with a full global rollout expected in early 2026. Once launched, users will be able to set up and change their usernames through the app’s privacy settings.

If all goes well, this update could mark a turning point in how South Africans use WhatsApp moving from “what’s your number?” to “what’s your username?”

What are your thoughts?

{Source:EWN}

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