WhatsApp Will Soon Let You Add Contacts Without Exchanging Phone Numbers

ISLAMABAD: WhatsApp is preparing to roll out a long-awaited feature that will allow users to connect through usernames instead of phone numbers, marking one of the biggest privacy updates in the app’s history.

According to reports from the latest WhatsApp beta for Android, the messaging app has quietly added a username reservation option in its settings. This will let users register and reserve their preferred usernames before the feature officially launches, ensuring that popular names aren’t taken immediately when the system goes live.

The update brings WhatsApp closer in line with rivals such as Telegram and Signal, which have long allowed users to connect without sharing their phone numbers.

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There are a few basic rules for usernames are that they cannot start with “www,” must contain at least one letter, and can only include lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores.

The upcoming username system is expected to enhance privacy, particularly for users who don’t want to share personal contact details with acquaintances or in group chats.

WhatsApp has not yet announced an official release date for the feature, but given that username reservations are already appearing in beta, a public rollout could arrive in the coming months.