WhatsApp Introduces Username Field to Contacts for Enhanced Privacy and Status Control
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
WhatsApp is gradually introducing a username field in contact creation to allow users to save contacts by username, enhancing privacy and integrating with status updates. This feature is currently available to some Android and iOS users as part of a phased rollout of WhatsApp’s username system, which aims to reduce reliance on phone numbers and improve contact and status privacy controls.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- WhatsApp adds a username field to contact creation for some Android and iOS users.
- The app verifies usernames before saving contacts to ensure account validity.
- Usernames allow contacts to be saved without sharing phone numbers directly.
- An optional Username Key adds security to prevent unwanted contact requests.
- Usernames integrate with WhatsApp Status privacy, controlling who can view updates.
- The full username system is still rolling out and not yet available to all users.
WhatsApp has begun rolling out a significant update to its contacts system by adding a dedicated username field on the new contact creation screen. This feature, currently appearing for some Android and iOS users, allows entering a WhatsApp username alongside the traditional name and phone number fields. Once a username is entered, the app verifies its existence within WhatsApp’s systems before allowing it to be saved as a contact. This update is part of a gradual expansion of WhatsApp’s username system, which is not yet fully available to all users.
The new username field prepares WhatsApp for a future where users can identify and save contacts by username rather than relying solely on phone numbers. In some cases, WhatsApp may require a Username Key as an additional security layer to prevent users who only know a username from automatically contacting someone, depending on the account’s privacy settings. This system also integrates with WhatsApp Status updates: if two users save each other’s usernames, they can be included in each other’s status viewers list. Occasionally, users who have not saved each other’s usernames may still see statuses if recent interaction occurred and privacy settings allow it.
This change could alter one of WhatsApp’s most recognizable features, as phone numbers have traditionally been central to accounts. Usernames will enable individuals and businesses to connect without immediately revealing personal phone numbers. However, the rollout remains gradual, and not all users with the latest app version will see the new username field yet. WABetaInfo notes that the full username system is still being expanded, so users without the option must wait for broader availability from WhatsApp.