Jakarta, INTI - Meta’s messaging platform, WhatsApp, will introduce a username feature for exchanging contacts in its next update.
Previously, WhatsApp users could only exchange contacts by sharing their phone numbers registered in their WhatsApp account. With this new update, users can exchange contacts using a username.
It was reported that WhatsApp users will be able to choose a unique username to share with others. This update aims to improve the protection and privacy of users' phone numbers.
WhatsApp will also restrict access to phone numbers. Users' numbers cannot be shared automatically when a contact is added to a group chat.
"There’s no directory to browse and no suggestions – people will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time," stated Meta in its official website post.
Username Reservation will be Available
However, it is not yet known when this update will be released. Therefore, the details of the function and how this username feature works are not yet fully known. Like previous updates, this update is being rolled out in stages.
Meta announced that it will open username reservations to users worldwide in the next few months. Users in each country and region will be notified of this name reservation.
Conclusion
WhatsApp will introduce a username feature that allows users to exchange contacts without sharing their phone numbers, enhancing privacy and security. WhatsApp will also restrict access to phone numbers, including no longer automatically sharing them when users are added to groups. Meta stated that username reservations will be gradually opened over the coming months.
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