WhatsApp users will soon be able to chat without sharing their number

WhatsApp is introducing a new privacy-focused feature that will allow users to connect with others without revealing their phone numbers.

The messaging platform announced, via their website, that usernames will soon become available globally, giving its billions of users another option when adding new contacts or starting conversations.

Instead of exchanging phone numbers, users will be able to share a unique username, allowing them to communicate while keeping their personal number private.

The feature will begin rolling out gradually over the coming months, with users already able to reserve their preferred usernames through the app.

While the username system is optional, WhatsApp says it will give people more control over how they interact with others online.

Once the feature is fully active, users will be able to connect by simply exchanging usernames. Phone numbers will no longer be visible during chats, although a phone number will still be required when creating a WhatsApp account.

The company confirmed that users will have the ability to change or remove their usernames whenever they choose.

WhatsApp usernames will be limited to 35 characters, with restrictions in place to prevent misuse. Certain high-profile names belonging to public figures and celebrities will also be protected from being claimed by other users.

Unlike some social platforms, WhatsApp will not introduce a public directory where people can search for usernames. Users will still need to share their usernames directly to start a conversation.

The feature is part of WhatsApp’s wider push to improve privacy on the platform. The company said usernames will help users communicate without exposing personal contact details.

Private WhatsApp messages remain protected through end-to-end encryption, meaning the company cannot access the contents of conversations.

However, WhatsApp does collect certain account activity data, including information such as who users communicate with and when messages are sent, which can be used to support its advertising systems.

The update comes as messaging platforms continue to focus on giving users more control over their online identity and personal information.

WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta, currently has billions of users worldwide and remains one of the most widely used communication apps globally.

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Source: whatsapp.com