is developing a new feature that will allow users to
search
for others on the platform by their usernames, eliminating the need to share phone numbers. The new feature is currently in development for
WhatsApp Web
and it is expected to be rolled out to mobile users as well in a future update.
The feature was previously made available to some users for testing on its Android app.
Once it is available, users will be able to search for other users by their username, phone number, or name.
“It will be possible to search for users by entering their username into the search bar, in a future update of the
web
client,” said a report by WABetainfo.
“This username-based search feature will enhance user experience by eliminating the need for phone numbers, providing a convenient and privacy-conscious method for users to discover and connect with others within the WhatsApp ecosystem,” it added.
Feature available on Telegram
The username-based search feature is similar to a feature that is already available on Telegram, a competing messaging app. This will make it much easier to connect with people you know without having to share your phone number with them – a major privacy improvement for the messaging app, which has long been criticised for requiring users to give up their personal contact information in order to connect with others.
Other WhatsApp features
WhatsApp is also said to be working on various other features, including one that will allow users to create usernames from the WhatsApp Web application and a feature that will allow users to change their WhatsApp username at any time. These new features are all part of WhatsApp's effort to make the app more user-friendly and more privacy-focused.
English (US) ·