WhatsApp tests usernames in shift from phone numbers for privacy: Know more

Meta-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp is planning to roll out a new feature aimed at increasing user privacy. Users would soon have an option to replace their phone numbers with usernames on the instant messaging platform. According to WhatsApp update tracker WABetaInfo, the upcoming feature, called “Username and PIN,” will offer users three privacy settings: “Username,” “Phone number,” and “Username with PIN.”

With the username option, users can hide their phone numbers and display only their usernames to new contacts. However, existing contacts who already have the phone number will still be able to see it.