WhatsApp is continuing to improve user privacy and personalization options, with its latest beta update for iOS (version 25.17.10.70, available via TestFlight) introducing development work on a username feature. This feature will allow users to choose a unique username, providing an additional layer of privacy by letting people connect without sharing their phone numbers.
Username Change Notifications
In a previous beta version (25.11.10.72), WhatsApp began testing a feature that automatically notifies users when someone in a chat updates their username. These updates appear as system messages within the conversation, visible to all participants in real-time. A similar update is also planned for the WhatsApp Web client, allowing users to verify the availability of a desired username before selecting it.
Rules for Choosing a Username
WhatsApp has defined a set of clear rules to ensure usernames are consistent, secure, and free from confusion. Key requirements include:
- Usernames must include at least one letter (a–z).
- Allowed characters: lowercase letters, numbers (0–9), periods (.), and underscores (_).
- Usernames cannot begin with “www.” or end with a domain such as “.com” or “.net”.
- No consecutive periods or usernames starting/ending with a period.
- Length must be between 3 and 30 characters.
- Duplicate usernames are not allowed, and discriminators (e.g., “#1234”) will not be supported.
These restrictions help prevent impersonation and scam attempts, promoting a safer environment for all users.
Enhanced Privacy and User Experience
Once a valid username is chosen, users will see a confirmation screen with a celebratory animation, confirming that their username has been successfully linked to their account. From then on, others can connect using the username — without needing access to the phone number. This enhancement will be especially beneficial for users who prefer to maintain privacy in group chats or when connecting with new contacts.
Ongoing Development
While still in development, this feature reflects WhatsApp’s broader goal to enhance privacy and flexibility for users. The company continues refining the username system ahead of its official beta release to ensure a seamless and secure rollout across platforms, including Android, iOS, and the Web.
Stay tuned for updates as WhatsApp finalizes this feature and brings it closer to public release.
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