WhatsApp’s new feature ​may finally let you chat without sharing your number, may allow creation of a unique handle like Instagram

Launched back in 2009 as a simple status update app, WhatsApp has come a long way from being a quiet disruptor to becoming the go-to messaging platform for over 2 billion users globally. In 2014, it was snapped up by Meta (then Facebook) for a whopping $19 billion, marking one of the biggest tech acquisitions ever. Since then, WhatsApp has added a steady stream of features while sticking to its clean, no-nonsense interface.

And now, it’s gearing up for one of its most significant privacy updates yet: the ability to hide your phone number in select chats.

WhatsApp is working on a major privacy update, and it’s one users have been asking about for years. The app is gearing up to introduce usernames, which means you could soon start chatting without revealing your phone number.

Spotted in a recent beta build by WABetaInfo, the feature is still in testing, but it’s a clear sign that WhatsApp is actively developing the interface and rules around it. It’s not live for everyone just yet but if all goes well, a public rollout might not be too far off.

What’s Changing on WhatsApp?

Soon, WhatsApp will introduce usernames, allowing you to create a unique handle, similar to what you see on platforms like Telegram or Instagram. Instead of needing your phone number, others will be able to find and message you using this new username. This could be especially useful in group chats or when connecting with people you don’t know well.

To keep things secure and user-friendly, WhatsApp may set a few rules for usernames:

Each must include at least one letter.
Usernames can’t start with “www”.
Only lowercase letters, numbers, underscores, and periods are allowed.

Once your username is accepted, you’ll even get a fun confetti animation as confirmation.

If you ever change your username, your contacts will be notified via a system message, similar to how updates about profile photos or phone numbers are currently handled. However, it’s still unclear whether WhatsApp will give you the option to hide your phone number from existing contacts. What we do know is that new users who don’t have your number will only see your username.

WhatsApp is also working on a username availability checker, expected to roll out later as part of an update for WhatsApp Web.

There’s no official release date yet, but the feature seems to be in its final testing phase. Once launched, it could significantly improve privacy by letting users chat without revealing personal numbers. If you’ve been hoping for a more private way to connect on WhatsApp, that option may be coming soon.