WhatsApp is gearing up to introduce one of its biggest updates yet – the ability for users to create unique usernames, marking a major shift from its long-standing reliance on phone numbers.
According to test builds spotted by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is developing a new handle system that will allow users to identify themselves through usernames instead of just mobile numbers. Since its launch in 2009, the Meta-owned platform has depended entirely on phone numbers for registration and contact discovery – a system that now feels outdated compared to rivals like Telegram, which has supported usernames for years.
Recent test builds reveal specific guidelines for creating usernames. Each handle must contain at least one letter and can include lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. Usernames starting with “www.” or made entirely of numbers or symbols will be blocked to avoid confusion and misuse.
In addition, WhatsApp is testing a reservation system that will allow users to secure their preferred usernames early, even before the feature’s public launch. This move aims to reduce impersonation risks and ensure users can lock in their desired identities in advance.
Meta has not yet confirmed an official rollout date for the username feature. However, the presence of the reservation option suggests that the update may arrive soon – representing a significant step forward in how users connect and communicate on the world’s most popular messaging app.
Meanwhile, WhatsApp recently rolled out a built-in translation feature, enabling users to translate chats instantly without leaving the app. Available across iOS and Android in all 180 regions, the feature currently supports six languages on Android and over 19 languages on iPhones, thanks to integration with Apple’s Translate app.
(Tamil Craze)
