WhatsApp to Soon Introduce Username Feature to Enhance Privacy, Potentially Removing Need for Phone Number

Highlights

• Use a unique username instead of a phone number for chatting
• Enhanced privacy by keeping phone numbers private
• Initially available for WhatsApp Web during the testing phase
• Increased control over who can contact you on WhatsApp

WhatsApp, one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, is about to make a big change.

Soon, you won’t need to use your phone number to chat.

Instead, you’ll be able to use a username.

This is exciting news for anyone who cares about privacy online.

Let’s look at what this means for WhatsApp users.

What’s Changing?

Right now, you need to give WhatsApp your phone number to use the app. B

ut soon, you’ll be able to choose a unique username instead.

This is similar to how other apps like Telegram work.

It’s a big step towards giving users more control over their privacy.

With this new feature, you’ll be able to pick a special username that no one else has.

Think of it like your personal online address.

Only people who know your username or phone number will be able to contact you on WhatsApp.

This gives you more control over who can reach you on the app.

This change is all about privacy. Many people don’t like sharing their phone numbers online.

Using a username instead means you can keep your number private while still using WhatsApp.

It’s a safer way to chat with people you might not know well.

When Can We Use It?

For now, this new feature is only being tested on WhatsApp Web. That’s the version of WhatsApp you use on your computer.

The app might look a bit different while they’re working on this new feature.

This change shows that WhatsApp is listening to what people want. Many users have been asking for more privacy options, and this is a big step in that direction.

It makes WhatsApp more like other messaging apps that already use usernames.

How to Use WhatsApp Without a Phone

While WhatsApp is primarily designed for use on smartphones, there are ways to use it without a phone. Here are a few methods:

WhatsApp Web

• Go to web.whatsapp.com on your computer
• Open WhatsApp on your phone and scan the QR code on the website
• You can now use WhatsApp on your computer, even if your phone is off

WhatsApp Desktop App

• Download the WhatsApp desktop app for Windows or Mac
• Set it up similarly to WhatsApp Web
• This gives you a standalone app experience without needing your phone

Android Emulators

• Install an Android emulator like BlueStacks on your computer
• Download WhatsApp from the Google Play Store within the emulator
• Set up WhatsApp as you would on a phone

Tablet with SIM Card

• If you have a tablet with a SIM card slot, you can install WhatsApp directly on it
• Use your phone number to set up the account

FAQs

What is the new username feature in WhatsApp?

The new feature allows users to select a unique username for chatting instead of using their phone number, enhancing privacy and control.

How will this feature improve privacy?

By allowing users to keep their phone numbers private, the username feature offers a safer way to chat with people, especially those you may not know well.

When will the username feature be available?

The feature is currently being tested on WhatsApp Web. A broader rollout is expected after successful testing.

Will my current contacts still be able to reach me with my phone number?

Yes, contacts who already have your phone number will still be able to contact you, but you can now also share your username as an alternative contact method.

Can I change my username after setting it?

While details are still emerging, it’s likely that WhatsApp will allow users to change their usernames periodically, similar to other platforms.

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