WhatsApp is now going to allow users to add and
manage contacts
from any device, bringing a major change to its previous mobile-only contact management system. The update, rolling out gradually over the coming weeks, will first be available on WhatsApp Web and
Windows platforms
before expanding to other linked devices.
The messaging platform is also introducing a new feature allowing users to save contacts exclusively within WhatsApp, rather than to their device's general contact list.
These
WhatsApp-specific contacts
will be automatically restored when users switch devices or lose their phones.
"These WhatsApp contacts are ideal for when you are sharing your phone with others or if you want to separate personal and business contacts when managing more than one WhatsApp account on your phone," the company stated in its announcement.
Username will soon replace phone numbers on WhatsApp
WhatsApp says that these updates lay the groundwork for a future
username system
, which will enable users to connect without sharing phone numbers. This planned feature aims to enhance
user privacy
, though WhatsApp has not yet announced a specific launch date.
Previously, users could only add contacts by manually entering phone numbers or scanning QR codes on their mobile devices. The new system will allow for seamless contact management from desktop computers, eliminating the need to switch to mobile phones for contact additions.
WhatsApp emphasised that these changes were developed with user security in mind, though specific security details were not disclosed in the announcement.
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