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WhatsApp introduces usernames to enhance user privacy
WhatsApp has announced the introduction of usernames, a new feature designed to enhance user privacy and digital security. This update will allow users to connect and chat with others, including businesses and public communities, without the necessity of sharing their personal mobile phone numbers.
To facilitate this transition, the platform has launched a reservation phase. Users can secure their desired alias through the app settings under the Account section. This preemptive step is intended to ensure name availability before the feature becomes fully operational, which is expected by the end of the year.
Usernames must adhere to specific guidelines: they cannot exceed 35 characters, must start with a letter, and cannot begin with ‘www’ or end with a domain extension. While the feature provides an alternative to phone numbers, WhatsApp will not include tools for random profile discovery; users must know the exact username to initiate contact.
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Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] WhatsApp will not include a search tool to find users by their usernames; users must know the exact username to message someone. cn24tv.it
- [● 3 SOURCES] WhatsApp is introducing usernames to allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers. www.cronica.com.ar · www.notizie.it · cn24tv.it
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Phone numbers will remain hidden from anyone who does not already have the number saved in their contacts. www.cronica.com.ar
- [● 2 SOURCES] Usernames must be under 35 characters, start with a letter, cannot start with ‘www’, and cannot end with a domain extension. www.notizie.it · cn24tv.it
- [● 2 SOURCES] WhatsApp has opened a reservation phase to allow users to secure their desired usernames before the full rollout. www.notizie.it · cn24tv.it
- [● 2 SOURCES] The username feature is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year. www.notizie.it · cn24tv.it