Highlights
- WhatsApp is introducing usernames and PINs to enhance user privacy.
- New features will allow contact sharing without revealing phone numbers.
- Users can set a four-digit PIN associated with their username, required for first-time contacts, protecting against unwanted messages and spam.
- Usernames can be shared to start conversations.
- The move aligns with the tech industry’s focus on user data protection, making WhatsApp safer.
WhatsApp is rolling out new features regularly with an aim to enhance user privacy on the platform.
Over the years, the company has shown commitment to improving the overall messaging experience as well.
Following the same path, we hear the popular messaging app is now coming up with one of the most exciting updates – the introduction of unique usernames.
Let’s take a look at everything we know about this feature so far.
📝 WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.18.2: what’s new?
WhatsApp is working on an advanced username feature with PIN support, and it will be available in a future update!https://t.co/6P4feyVm6Y pic.twitter.com/a4tIr7Rwa3
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) August 19, 2024
The popular WhatsApp beta informer @WABetaInfo made a post on X (previously known as Twitter) revealing some interesting details about this new feature.
“This is an optional feature designed to give you more control over who can reach you, ensuring that only those you choose can reach out to you initially through your username,” the report stated.
WhatsApp’s New Usernames and PINs Features
As per the information revealed, WhatsApp is introducing usernames and PINs.
The new feature will allow users to share their contact information without revealing their phone numbers, providing an extra layer of privacy.
Apart from the username feature, WhatsApp is also coming up with a PIN support feature.
This will add another layer of security as users will be able to set a four-digit PIN code associated with their username.
This unique PIN will be required for anyone trying to contact them for the first time.
This extra security measure is designed to protect against unwanted messages and spam.
With usernames, users will have a more secure and flexible way to connect.
This username can be shared with others to start conversations eliminating the need to exchange phone numbers.
For existing contacts, the phone number will still be visible, but for new connections, the username will serve as the main identifier, giving users more control over their privacy.
Existing contacts won’t need to enter the PIN, ensuring ongoing conversations aren’t disrupted.
Are Usernames New to Messaging Apps?
It is important to note that the idea of using usernames in messaging apps is not new.
Popular platforms like Telegram have successfully implemented this feature long ago.
Users on Telegram are allowed to communicate without sharing their phone numbers.
WhatsApp’s decision to follow suit shows that the company is responding to user feedback and prioritizing the protection of personal information.
This perfectly reflects the growing demand for privacy in digital communication.
How Usernames and Pin Enhance User Privacy?
The upcoming features of usernames with PIN codes can enhance user privacy on WhatsApp to a great extent.
Here’s how.
First of all, these coming WhatsApp features align with a broader trend in the tech industry, where every tech company is increasingly focusing on user data protection.
When the platform allows users to hide their phone numbers and control who can contact them, the users of the platform are given enhanced control over their interactions.
The feature gets more robust when the username is protected with PINs.
Overall, the introduction of usernames and PIN codes will make WhatsApp a safer and more private platform.
These features will appeal to both professionals and everyday users who value their privacy and control over their digital communication.
The development of usernames has been confirmed with the release of version 2.24.18.2 of the WhatsApp Beta for Android, where the feature is currently being tested.
Once fully implemented, users will be able to create a unique username linked to their WhatsApp account.
FAQs
Q1. How can I control who sees my personal information on WhatsApp?
Answer. You can manage who sees your last seen, profile photo, about, and status updates by going to Settings > Account > Privacy.
From there, you can choose to share this information with everyone, your contacts, or nobody.
Q2. What is end-to-end encryption on WhatsApp?
Answer. End-to-end encryption ensures that only you and the person you’re communicating with can read what is sent.
Not even WhatsApp can access your messages. This encryption is automatically applied to all your messages, calls, photos, and videos.
Q3. How do I enable two-step verification on WhatsApp?
Answer. To enable two-step verification, go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable.
This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN when registering your phone number with WhatsApp again.
Q4. What is the ‘Silence Unknown Callers’ feature?
Answer. The ‘Silence Unknown Callers’ feature automatically screens out spam, scams, and calls from unknown people.
These calls won’t ring on your phone but will be visible in your call list, providing increased protection and privacy.
Q5. How do disappearing messages work on WhatsApp?
Answer. Disappearing messages allow you to send messages that vanish after a set period.
You can enable this feature in a chat by tapping the contact’s name or group info, selecting Disappearing messages, and setting the timer.
This helps keep your conversations private.
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