WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, with over 2 billion users. It offers a lot of features, such as voice and video calls, end-to-end encryption, stickers, status updates, and more. But one thing that has been lacking from WhatsApp is the ability to choose a username for your account.
Currently, WhatsApp uses phone numbers as the only identity for accounts. Users need a phone number to create an account and to communicate with others. Anyone in an individual or a group chat can see your phone number unless you have set some privacy settings to hide it. This can be inconvenient and risky for some users who may not want to share their personal phone numbers with strangers or acquaintances.
However, this may change soon, as WhatsApp is reportedly working on introducing usernames to the app. According to a report by WABetaInfo, the latest beta version of WhatsApp’s app for Android suggests that the company could introduce this feature in the future. The report noted that the username section will be visible on the Profile page in Settings.
The username feature could allow users to choose their own unique handle that will be displayed instead of their phone number on WhatsApp. This could make it easier and safer for users to find and chat with each other on the app, without having to share their personal phone numbers or QR codes. The username feature could also bring WhatsApp closer to how people communicate on other Meta-owned apps, such as Instagram and Facebook Messenger.
How to Choose a Username for Your WhatsApp Account
The username feature is not yet available for all users, as it is still under development. However, if you are curious about how it will work, here are some possible steps that you may have to follow once it is rolled out:
- Open WhatsApp and tap on the three dots at the top right corner.
- Tap on Settings and then tap on your profile picture at the top.
- You will see a new field called Username under your Name. Tap on it to choose your username.
- You will have to enter a unique username that is not already taken by someone else. You may also have to follow some rules and guidelines for choosing a username, such as avoiding offensive or inappropriate words.
- Once you have chosen your username, tap on Save or Done to confirm it.
- Your username will be displayed on your profile and in your chats instead of your phone number. You will also be able to search for other users by their usernames on WhatsApp.
Benefits of Choosing a Username for Your WhatsApp Account
Choosing a username for your WhatsApp account could have several benefits, such as:
- Enhancing your privacy and security: By choosing a username, you can keep your phone number hidden from other users who are not in your contact list. This can prevent unwanted calls or messages from strangers or spammers. You can also avoid revealing your personal information to people you don’t know well or trust.
- Improving your user experience: By choosing a username, you can make your account more recognizable and distinguishable on WhatsApp. You can also express your personality or preferences through your username. You can also easily find and chat with other users by their usernames, without having to ask for their phone numbers or QR codes.
- Aligning with other Meta-owned apps: By choosing a username, you can bring your WhatsApp account closer to how you communicate on other Meta-owned apps, such as Instagram and Facebook Messenger. You can also use the same username across different platforms if you want to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about choosing usernames for WhatsApp accounts:
Q: Can I change my username after choosing it?
A: It is not clear yet whether WhatsApp will allow users to change their usernames after choosing them or not. However, it is possible that there may be some restrictions or limitations on changing usernames, such as a time limit or a fee.
Q: Can I keep my phone number hidden from other users?
A: Yes, choosing a username could allow you to keep your phone number hidden from other users who are not in your contact list. However, you may still have to verify your phone number when creating or logging into your account.
Q: Will choosing a username affect my end-to-end encryption or security on WhatsApp?
A: No, choosing a username will not affect your end-to-end encryption or security on WhatsApp. Your messages and calls will still be encrypted and protected from third parties.
Q: Will choosing a username affect my delivery status or reading receipts on WhatsApp?
A: No, choosing a username will not affect your delivery status (single tick or double tick) or read receipts (blue ticks) on WhatsApp.
Choose Usernames For Your WhatsApp Account
Choosing a username for your WhatsApp account could be a useful and convenient feature that could enhance your privacy and user experience on the app. However, the feature is still in development and may take some time before it is available for all users globally. We hope this article helped you learn more about how to choose a username for your WhatsApp account and what benefits it could bring. If you have any questions or feedback, let us know in the comment below.
