In what could become one of the biggest shifts in its history, WhatsApp is reportedly preparing to replace traditional phone numbers with unique usernames — a move aimed at redefining user privacy and identity on the platform.
The new feature, currently under development, could allow users to connect securely without ever sharing their personal phone numbers, signaling Meta’s latest effort to strengthen confidentiality across its messaging ecosystem.
The new feature, currently spotted in WhatsApp’s beta testing phase, will let people chat and join groups using usernames instead of phone numbers, giving users greater control and privacy, particularly in large or business group chats.
Leaked images reveal a new “Username” section in user profiles, enabling people to choose personalized handles and hide their phone numbers if desired.
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While this update could make WhatsApp function more like a social network, it has also sparked concerns about potential username hoarding and impersonation. However, WhatsApp is reportedly developing verification measures to curb such misuse.
The feature remains in testing, but if fully rolled out, it could redefine how more than two billion users connect — shifting WhatsApp’s focus from numbers to names.
