WhatsApp Plans Username Feature, Sparks Privacy Buzz

WhatsApp is planning to ditch its reliance on phone numbers with a new feature that will let users chat using usernames instead. The feature, still under development, will allow both individuals and businesses to create a unique username made up of letters and numbers—no special characters, domains, or misleading links allowed.

Reports from WaBetaInfo and Mashable reveal that Meta is still tweaking the system. As it stands, usernames won’t start with “www.” or end with “.com”, a clear move to prevent impersonation and spam. Once the feature goes live, users will be able to choose not to show their phone numbers in chats at all.

Taking a Page from Telegram and Discord

This move is WhatsApp’s clearest sign yet that it’s chasing rivals like Telegram and Discord, both of which already support chatting without phone numbers. By integrating this username system, WhatsApp is working to make privacy and anonymity more accessible for its two billion-plus users.

Another recent rollout is the Notify feature, which lets users mark chats for high-priority attention. These seemingly small changes are part of a much broader transformation in how users engage with the app.

A Shift Toward Greater Control and Flexibility

According to reports, once someone changes their username, a system message will appear in the chat so others are updated. This transparency helps balance privacy with accountability, a fine line that messaging apps are increasingly expected to walk.

WhatsApp is evolving into more than just a basic messaging app—it’s becoming a full-on communication platform, say insiders familiar with Meta’s broader strategy.