WhatsApp to let users chat without sharing phone numbers

Meta has announced a major update to WhatsApp that will allow users to connect using unique usernames instead of phone numbers.

The change, set to roll out gradually over the coming months, is designed to improve privacy by preventing users’ phone numbers from being automatically exposed in group chats or first-time conversations.

According to the company, users will instead be able to choose a unique username to share with others: “Designed to protect the privacy of your phone number,” WhatsApp said in a statement.

Under the new system, people will no longer be added or contacted simply through their phone numbers. Instead, others will need to know and enter an exact username, with no public directory or search suggestions available.

Meta explained: “There’s no directory to browse and no suggestions, so people need to know your exact username to contact you.” Because of WhatsApp’s global user base of over three billion people, the company said not all users will be able to secure their preferred usernames.

The rollout will begin gradually, with users notified when username reservations become available in their region. Meta also said creators, small businesses and organisations will be able to claim usernames that match their existing handles on Facebook and Instagram.