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WhatsApp Introduces Usernames for Enhanced Privacy Sharing

4/9/2026

23 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that lets users create usernames, allowing contact sharing without phone numbers.
The rollout is phased and limited to a subset of users on Android and iOS.
Usernames must be 3-35 characters, include at least one letter, and follow specific formatting rules.
Even when sharing usernames, phone numbers remain linked to accounts for verification, preserving core functionality while improving privacy.

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Story summary

WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that lets users create usernames, allowing contact sharing without phone numbers.
The rollout is phased and limited to a subset of users on Android and iOS.
Usernames must be 3-35 characters, include at least one letter, and follow specific formatting rules.
Even when sharing usernames, phone numbers remain linked to accounts for verification, preserving core functionality while improving privacy.