WhatsApp announced the launch of the “Usernames” feature, which allows users to communicate with others without the need to share their phone numbers, with the aim of enhancing privacy and giving users greater control over their personal data.
When is the usernames feature available in WhatsApp?
The company explained that starting this week, users will be able to reserve usernames in preparation for the gradual launch of the feature over the coming months, provided that they will receive a notification through the application when it is available in their countries.
She pointed out that opening reservations early comes with the number of WhatsApp users exceeding three billion, which increases the possibility of similar names, and gives everyone the opportunity to choose the name they want before the official launch.
It is recommended to update the “WhatsApp” application on phones to take advantage of the feature when it is available, and to quickly reserve a suitable username for the account.
How to reserve a username on WhatsApp
If the usernames feature is available in your country, follow these steps:
– Open “WhatsApp”, then click on More (⋮) and then click on Settings.
– Go to your personal account.
– Click on Create Username. (If the feature is gradually rolling out in your region, tap Reserve Username and then Create Username.)
– Enter the username you wish to use.
– If the name is available, a message will appear confirming that it can be used.
– If the name is not available, you can take advantage of the suggestions that WhatsApp generates based on the name you entered.
– Click Save and then Done to complete the process.
If you reserve a username before the feature arrives in your region, the name will remain reserved for you, and will be activated automatically when the feature is launched, with a notification sent via WhatsApp to inform you that it is ready for use.
Why is this feature important?
The feature will allow starting conversations with new people, such as classmates, work colleagues, or neighbors, as well as joining group conversations, without having to reveal the phone number. The phone number will not appear when communicating for the first time with people or businesses after activating the username, while it will remain visible to contacts and groups with whom it was previously shared, which means that the new protection is limited to future conversations.
WhatsApp confirmed that the new system is designed to preserve privacy, as it will not include a general directory or the ability to search for users by usernames, and no one will be able to start a conversation unless they know the user’s full name.
To enhance protection, the company provides a “username key,” which is an optional option that adds a code that the other party must know before they can send a message, if the user decides to activate it.
WhatsApp added that user names will be unique, and it also provides a built-in tool that helps users come up with a suitable name when needed. In return, content creators, small businesses, and organizations will be able to use the same usernames they have on Instagram or Facebook if available, to maintain a unified identity across different Meta platforms.
WhatsApp’s head of products, Alice Newton-Rex, revealed that the company had previously reserved the usernames of public figures, such as celebrities and politicians, to prevent their identities from being impersonated, so users with the same names may have to choose alternative names.
The username can be created via the latest version of WhatsApp by going to “Settings,” then choosing “Account,” then choosing “Username” on Android devices, or via the profile page and then choosing “Create Username” on iPhone devices. The company is scheduled to continue rolling out the feature gradually over the coming months, so the feature may be delayed in appearing in your account. (aitnews)
