Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly working on a feature to set a WhatsApp username, allowing users to choose unique usernames for their accounts. Currently under development, the feature is expected to be introduced in a future update of the popular instant messaging app.
“After installing the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.11.15 update from the Google Play Store, we noticed an important feature during our usual search for new builds,” WABetaInfo said in its report.
A screenshot shared by WABetaInfo suggests that WhatsApp is actively working on introducing a username feature within the app settings. Users will be able to access this feature through the WhatsApp Settings menu, specifically in the Profile section
By choosing a username, users can move away from relying solely on phone numbers for contact identification. Instead, they will have the option of creating a unique and easy to remember username.
As per reports, WhatsApp users may soon be able to start conversations with others simply by entering their chosen username without the need to know their phone numbers.
The specifics of how usernames will work on WhatsApp are still unclear, but it is expected that conversations initiated via usernames will be protected by the app’s strong end-to-end encryption. This ensures that user privacy and data security will continue to be a top priority.
Although this feature is still in the development phase, it is anticipated that beta testers will have the opportunity to try it out in the near future.
In related news, the instant messaging app is also rolling out a new interface for the Groups settings screen. This feature is currently available to some beta testers.
According to the report, the new interface is more clear and intuitive than before. Instead of opening an additional window every time an option is selected, it is now possible to enable or disable it directly from the screen by toggling a switch, resulting in time savings.
