WhatsApp is reportedly working on a major privacy-focused feature that could change the way users connect on the platform. Soon, users may be able to start chats without sharing their mobile numbers, thanks to a new Username system similar to platforms like Telegram Messenger and Instagram.

The upcoming feature aims to give users more privacy and flexibility while chatting with people online.

What Is the New WhatsApp Username Feature?

Currently, WhatsApp requires users to share their phone numbers to connect with others.

With the upcoming update:

• Users will be able to create a unique username
• Others can message them using that username
• The phone number will remain hidden during chats

Instead of seeing your mobile number, people will only see your chosen username.

However, your number will still remain linked internally for:

• Login
• Verification
• Account recovery

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Why This Feature Is Important

This new system could significantly improve user privacy.

It will be especially useful for:

• Creators
• Freelancers
• Business users
• Online communities
• People chatting with strangers online

Instead of sharing a personal number, users can simply share a username.

How to Set a Username on WhatsApp

According to reports, setting up a username will be simple.

✅ Steps to Set WhatsApp Username

1. Open WhatsApp on Android or iPhone
2. Go to Settings
3. Tap on your Profile section
4. Select the new Username option
5. Enter your preferred username
6. Save it once available

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WhatsApp Username Rules

WhatsApp will reportedly apply several rules for usernames.

Username Requirements:

• Must contain 3 to 35 characters
• Must include at least one letter
• Allowed characters:
  • Letters
  • Numbers
  • Dot (.)
  • Underscore (_)

❌ Not Allowed:

• Starting with “www”
• Starting or ending with a dot
• Consecutive dots (“..”)
• Domain-like endings:
  • .com
  • .org
  • .in

WhatsApp will automatically check username availability before saving.

Mobile Numbers Will Still Exist Internally

Even though usernames will become visible publicly, WhatsApp will still keep phone numbers connected to accounts for:

• Security
• Login verification
• Recovery purposes

This means the platform is not fully removing phone-number-based accounts.

Similar to Telegram & Instagram

The feature appears heavily inspired by username systems already used on:

• Telegram Messenger
• Instagram
• Discord Inc.

These platforms already allow users to:

• Share usernames instead of numbers
• Protect personal information
• Chat more privately online

Gradual Rollout for Android & iPhone Users

Reports suggest WhatsApp is currently testing the feature and gradually rolling it out for selected:

• Android users
• iPhone users

Once enabled, users may get options to:

• Be discoverable via phone number
• Be discoverable via username
• Use both methods together

Privacy Could Become a Bigger Focus for WhatsApp

The username system signals WhatsApp’s increasing focus on:

• Privacy
• Safer communication
• Reduced exposure of personal data

As online scams, spam, and unwanted contact continue rising, hiding personal numbers could become an important security feature for millions of users.

Final Thoughts

WhatsApp’s upcoming username feature could become one of the platform’s biggest privacy updates in years.

By allowing users to chat without exposing personal phone numbers, WhatsApp may finally offer an experience closer to modern messaging platforms like Telegram and Instagram.

If rolled out widely, the feature could make communication:
✔ More private
✔ More flexible
✔ Safer for online interactions