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WhatsApp Introduces Privacy-Focused Username Feature by 2026

10/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

WhatsApp will roll out a username feature in early 2026 to connect without sharing phone numbers, improving privacy for users.
Developed over two years, the feature will include a username reservation and requires initial phone-number verification before selecting a public identifier.
The update is in beta for Android and iOS, including South Africa.
The change aligns with a broader move toward privacy and safer online interactions.

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Story summary

WhatsApp will roll out a username feature in early 2026 to connect without sharing phone numbers, improving privacy for users.
Developed over two years, the feature will include a username reservation and requires initial phone-number verification before selecting a public identifier.
The update is in beta for Android and iOS, including South Africa.
The change aligns with a broader move toward privacy and safer online interactions.