WhatsApp Username Feature: Now Chat and Call Without Sharing Your Phone Number
WhatsApp is gearing up for a major privacy-focused update – the WhatsApp Username Feature, expected to roll out by 2026. This new feature will let users chat and call others without revealing their phone numbers, using unique usernames instead.
What Is the WhatsApp Username Feature?
According to a recent report from WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is developing a system that allows users to search, chat, and make voice or video calls using usernames. Each user will be assigned a unique identifier, which replaces the need for phone numbers during communication. This change aims to improve privacy, especially when connecting with new people or businesses.
How It Works
The feature, already visible in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.33.2 update, introduces username-based calling and messaging. Instead of using phone numbers, users can simply find and contact others by their usernames. The platform’s infrastructure has been redesigned to ensure that end-to-end encryption remains fully intact, even with the new communication method.
WhatsApp has also introduced a Business-Scoped User ID (BSUID) to allow businesses to interact securely with customers while keeping phone numbers hidden. Developer documentation has been updated to include integration guidelines, workflows, and best practices.
Deadline for Businesses
WhatsApp has set June 2026 as the deadline for all businesses using its API to support username-based communication. Companies will need to update their systems before the rollout completes. This update is part of what WhatsApp calls a “privacy-first modernisation” — ensuring anonymity and reliability without compromising security.
WhatsApp Shares Official Update on Usernames and Business-Scoped IDs Ahead of 2026 Deadline!
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) November 6, 2025
WhatsApp is launching usernames later in 2026, allowing users and businesses to connect and make calls without revealing their phone numbers.https://t.co/aJgWebQei8 pic.twitter.com/czsOsAJ71E
What Users Can Expect
The WhatsApp Username Feature will be rolled out in stages throughout 2026, starting with businesses and extending to all users. Once fully operational, users will be able to chat and call anyone on WhatsApp without disclosing personal details, enhancing both privacy and convenience.
This marks one of the most significant changes in WhatsApp’s history, giving users more control over their identity while maintaining the trusted encryption the app is known for.
