MENLO PARK, United States — WhatsApp has announced the introduction of usernames, a new feature designed to allow users connect with others without having to share their personal phone numbers.
Okay News reports that the messaging platform said users can begin reserving usernames this week ahead of the full launch scheduled for later this year. The feature is intended to offer an additional layer of privacy by enabling people to identify and contact one another using a unique username instead of a phone number.
According to WhatsApp, reserving a username takes only a few seconds. Users who wish to secure one are advised to update to the latest version of the application and navigate to Settings > Account > Username. The company said the reservation process is being rolled out gradually and will pave the way for the wider release of the username feature in the coming months.
