Syed Saif Ul Hassan 
Oct 10, 2025
Since sharing phone numbers for one-time interaction might feel inappropriate, especially for connecting with people via WhatsApp, the messaging app is about to bid farewell to the long-running phone number feature for adding people to your WhatsApp account.
While Meta's instant messaging platform is testing it, it has been confirmed that usernames on WhatsApp will soon replace phone numbers, meaning there will be no need to share your phone number with unfamiliar people in public places.
In the near future, users will be able to create unique usernames for quick chat on WhatsApp, without having to share phone numbers, according to WABetaInfo.
The upcoming username property is expected to be one of the biggest changes in the app's history, enhancing privacy for its over two billion users worldwide.
It must be noted that the new username feature is currently available in beta versions for both Android and iOS, and selected users can set a personalised handle instead of using their phone number.
When searching for or starting a new chat, a unique username will be used, keeping personal numbers private.
Regarding the reservation of usernames on WhatsApp, the platform is trialling methods to verify username availability and prevent duplication.
Users will also have the option to display only their username when starting conversations or joining groups, to keep their phone numbers concealed from unknown contacts.
While the introduction of usernames is a significant step towards a more private and secure identification, the most important side of the feature is that a phone number will be required for registration.
