AI Summary
WhatsApp is testing usernames to replace phone numbers, a shift that could enhance privacy for its 3 billion users but raises questions about identity management.
- •WhatsApp is developing a username-based contact system to enhance user privacy, according to Al Jazeera.
- •The feature aims to provide an alternative to sharing personal phone numbers across the platform's three billion global users.
- •Technical details regarding how usernames will integrate with existing group chat permissions or profile discovery remain undisclosed.
WhatsApp is developing a system that allows users to communicate via unique usernames instead of phone numbers. This shift moves the platform closer to competitors like Telegram and Signal, which have utilized handle-based identity systems for years. While the change offers a new layer of privacy, it remains unclear how the company will prevent username squatting or manage identity verification during the transition. If implemented, this update could fundamentally change how the world's most popular messaging app manages user discoverability.
Sources
Get the story before everyone else.
1-minute briefings. Zero noise. Straight to your inbox.
Join 1,200+ readers
Discussion
No comments yet. Be the first to start the conversation!