One of the main drawbacks of using WhatsApp is that users must reveal their phone numbers to chat. At present, a number is required to start any conversation. Since its launch in 2009, users have been required to log in with their mobile number. However, there are times when people prefer to keep their numbers private. This may soon change, as WhatsApp has introduced a new feature—spotted in its Beta version—that allows chatting without sharing your phone number.
Phone number and WhatsApp
Various reports and new feature rollouts have hinted at Meta’s wish to change the login process. The company wants to add a username login method to WhatsApp, which is similar to Telegram. This feature was recently spotted. WhatsApp Beta Info spotted WhatsApp testing this feature on the Android beta version. This isn’t the first time the username feature has been spotted on WhatsApp. it has been seen in beta versions before. To ensure consistency and security, WhatsApp has introduced a strict set of rules for usernames. Each username must have:
- Contain at least one letter
- Be between 3 and 30 characters long
- Include only lowercase letters (a-z), numbers (0-9), periods, and underscores
- Avoid domains (e.g. .com)
- Not start or end with a period or contain consecutive periods
- Not begin with “www.”
Duplicate usernames won’t be allowed, and users won’t be able to select a username already saved in their contact list. These limitations are designed to reduce confusion, prevent impersonation, and minimise the risk of scams.
Testing Beta Version
Right now, this feature is not fully available. You can only reserve or lock your username, but you cannot send messages using it yet. The company is still testing the feature in the beta version before adding it to the regular app. Since it’s only in beta testing, it may take some time to launch for everyone. The release date has not been announced.
