زوي كلاينمان

WhatsApp will introduce optional usernames allowing users to communicate without sharing phone numbers, rolling out globally in coming months. The feature supports up to 35‑character names, restricts high-profile public figure names, and includes tools like optional security keys to limit unwanted contact. Meta will allow creators and small businesses to request matching usernames across its platforms, requiring linked accounts and some shared data. Privacy experts caution that WhatsApp still collects significant metadata despite end‑to‑end encryption. Concerns have been raised over potential misuse and scams, but WhatsApp says it employs multiple protective layers. Usernames will not replace phone numbers for account creation, nor will a public directory be available. The update comes as WhatsApp transitions leadership from Will Cathcart to Kunal Shah.