WhatsApp Web is introducing a new feature that anticipates a future without the need to share one’s phone number. The option in question concerns the use of a username instead of a phone number for adding contacts, a step toward greater privacy and discretion in interactions.
This feature, already present on Telegram for some time, was introduced on WhatsApp in May last year through a beta version for Android and iOS, as reported by WABetaInfo. It allows users to select a username to interact more discreetly, thus separating the username from the number associated with the account.
The purpose of this option is to ensure that users do not necessarily have to share their phone number with others, instead allowing them to search and add people via a username.
The news now is that this feature has also been spotted on WhatsApp Web, indicating the possibility of an imminent release in the stable version of the app.
This innovation will allow users to associate usernames with their profiles, thus making communications more secure and private. Although it was noticed several months ago, its implementation in the stable version of the app will take some time, but its sighting on WhatsApp Web suggests a likely imminent arrival.
The advantage of this feature is the ability to interact more discreetly, allowing contacts to be added via handle (@pseudonyms) without having to share a phone number.
This represents one of WhatsApp’s most anticipated additions, marking one of the most significant advances in recent times. WhatsApp seems dedicated to improving the user experience, with recent additions such as the ability to group messages on WhatsApp Web and cross-platform features.
Although still in development, it is hoped that this feature will soon be available on all platforms, and further updates will be provided when the feature is ready to be tested by users.
