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WhatsApp Usernames Arrive: Ditch Your Phone Number!
8 Apr
Summary
- WhatsApp is rolling out usernames to beta testers.
- Usernames allow users to communicate without sharing phone numbers.
- Username keys add an optional layer of security for messaging.
WhatsApp has started a phased rollout of usernames to a limited set of users currently on its beta versions for both iOS and Android.
This new feature allows individuals to create a unique username, which can be chosen from existing Facebook or Instagram handles or created anew. The primary benefit is enhanced privacy, as users can now communicate without needing to share their phone numbers directly with contacts.
Strict guidelines govern username creation, including a minimum length of three characters, starting with a letter, and avoiding common internet prefixes or domain-like endings. Usernames must also be unique across Meta's platforms and can be up to 35 characters long, including numbers, periods, and underscores.
An optional four-digit username key can also be established, providing an additional security measure that anyone wishing to message a user must know. Although phone numbers are still required for WhatsApp account linkage, they will no longer need to be shared with individuals for messaging purposes.
