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WhatsApp has been one of the world's most important messaging apps for many years. But while competitors like Telegram have long supported usernames, WhatsApp has so far only been accessible via phone numbers. New evidence now suggests that this could soon change.
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will make logging in and communicating more flexible: usernames. This will make it possible to find contacts using a unique identifier without having to share your phone number. To prepare for this step, the app is currently testing a system that allows users to reserve usernames in advance.
WhatsApp catches up with its competitors’ features
Since its launch in 2009, WhatsApp has relied exclusively on phone numbers. This had advantages in terms of simplicity, but also meant that personal data always had to be shared. Other messaging apps like Telegram have offered the option to connect via usernames for years. This made it easier to build contacts without revealing private information. With the planned introduction of usernames, WhatsApp is now following suit.
First rules for usernames
A test version of WhatsApp discovered by WABetaInfo already contains initial hints of the username feature. It also lists the rules that will apply to the voting process.
- Usernames must not begin with “www” to avoid confusion with official websites.
- Every username must contain at least one letter. Names consisting only of numbers or symbols are not permitted.
- Allowed are lowercase letters from a to z, the numbers 0 to 9, as well as periods and underscores.
- The goal is a clear and consistent structure for all user names.
This means that WhatsApp sets standards from the outset that promote both security and clarity.
Reservation of user names
Another step discovered by WABetaInfo concerns the ability to reserve usernames. A new link will appear in WhatsApp's settings, allowing users to save their preferred name before the official launch. This will prevent popular names from being immediately claimed by others. The system also offers the opportunity to save their preferred username, even as the feature is rolled out gradually. This keeps the choice in your hands while simultaneously making it more difficult for imitators and fake accounts to be created.
Official launch still open
Meta hasn't officially confirmed the introduction of usernames for WhatsApp yet, nor has it provided a precise timeline. However, the fact that a reservation system is already being tested suggests that the release isn't too far off. The feature will likely be tested first in a beta version and then made available to all users.
WhatsApp: Usernames mark the next big step
With the introduction of usernames, WhatsApp is taking an important step toward becoming more flexible and secure. For the first time since the app's launch, usage is decoupled from a phone number. This not only makes it easier to contact people but also protects privacy. There's no release date yet, but the indications are clear: WhatsApp is preparing for a future with usernames – and is making it possible to secure the name of your choice now. (Image: Shutterstock / Creative_11)
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