UK WhatsApp customers urged to test settings now as new options rolled out
WhatsApp is rolling out a new username feature that lets users chat without sharing their phone number – here’s how to check your privacy settings now and reserve your username before it’s gone
WhatsApp has billions of worldwide users(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Countless people will have the messaging platform WhatsApp installed on their gadgets, as it offers a swift and handy way to communicate with family and mates. Yet users are being urged to examine their app straight away as a major new feature begins rolling out.
The upgrade means users will eventually be able to link up on WhatsApp without necessarily revealing their phone number. Rather, people will be able to utilise a username, much like those employed on Instagram, X or Telegram.
WhatsApp revealed that users can start securing optional usernames through the latest version of the app by going to Settings, Account, then Username.
It’s simple to choose a WhatsApp username(Image: Getty)
The firm said usernames will become accessible progressively over the coming months and users will get alerts in WhatsApp when the feature goes live in their region.
The modification could be amongst the most substantial privacy changes to WhatsApp in years. Up until now, users have generally needed to divulge their mobile number to be reached on the platform, reports the Liverpool Echo.
AP reported that the username feature is designed to tackle a long-standing privacy concern on an app used by more than three billion people globally.
Meanwhile, Ed Stapleton, tech expert at Clicks Geek, says users shouldn’t overlook the update, particularly if they fancy securing a simple or catchy username before someone else snaps it up.
For the first time, you’ll be able to choose a username on WhatsApp(Image: Getty)
Currently, sharing your WhatsApp details typically involves handing over your phone number. That might be fine for family members and close mates, but it’s not always ideal when you’re dealing with a fresh contact, a holiday rental host, a marketplace buyer, a community group, a work connection or someone you don’t really know.
The feature remains optional, but those after a neat, memorable handle might want to snap it up quickly. TechCrunch revealed that usernames can range from three to 35 characters, with WhatsApp setting aside certain usernames for high-profile celebrities, VIPs and organisations.
Ed said: “If you have a common name, a business name, a creator name or a username you already use on Instagram or Facebook, it is worth checking availability sooner rather than later.
“The shorter and simpler usernames are usually the first to go on any platform. You do not want to come back months later and find your preferred name has already been claimed.”
WhatsApp recommends users should make sure they’re using the latest version of the app, then head to Settings, Account and Username. If the feature is available, you can set up and grab a username in seconds.
If the option isn’t showing up yet, don’t panic – the launch is happening gradually, which means it might not be available on every account simultaneously. Users are urged to avoid usernames packed with too much personal information, including birth years, complete dates of birth, home addresses, workplace details or any other data that might make them easier to track down across the web.
Ed continued: “The best usernames are memorable but not revealing. Using your full name and year of birth might be easy, but it also gives away information you may not need to share with strangers.”
