WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform owned by Meta, is set to introduce a new feature that will allow users to chat without revealing their phone numbers. This privacy-focused update aims to enhance user security by enabling users to communicate using a username instead of their phone number, a feature successfully implemented by other messaging apps like Telegram.
The platform has released the 2.24.18.2 version of WhatsApp Beta for Android, which is currently in the testing phase. Once the feature is fully rolled out, users will be able to create a unique username linked to their WhatsApp account. This username can be shared to start conversations without the need to exchange phone numbers. However, phone numbers will still be visible to users who already have each other’s contact details saved.
Another notable feature in the Beta version is the introduction of a PIN system, designed to reduce spam. Users who have not interacted before will be required to enter a PIN (at least four digits) to initiate a chat, even if they know the recipient’s username.
While the exact release date for these features remains unclear, reports suggest that the username feature and PIN support may not be fully implemented before the end of the year. Additionally, WhatsApp is also working on a “Reshare Status Updates” feature, allowing users to easily reshare status updates where they have been tagged, similar to Instagram’s functionality.
