WhatsApp has introduced usernames, allowing users to keep their phone numbers private.
The Meta-owned platform announced the feature in a blog post on Monday.
WhatsApp said the feature, which will be officially launched later this year, is designed to give users more privacy and make it easier to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers.
“You want to join the parent chat for the soccer team but you’re not ready to give your phone number to people you’ve never met. That’s why we’re introducing usernames for WhatsApp,” the post reads.
The platform said users can now begin to reserve a username they would like to use when the feature officially launches, giving everyone an early opportunity to claim their preferred name.
WhatsApp also said creators, businesses, and organisations will be able to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames to maintain a consistent
