WhatsApp launches usernames to mask phone numbers, adds green‑dot online indicator

Meta’s WhatsApp is gradually activating a username feature that lets users start conversations without sharing their telephone numbers. The rollout, currently limited to a subset of Android and iOS beta users, allows a handle of 3‑35 characters that can be edited or removed at any time. When a username changes, existing contacts receive a notification. Meta reserves certain names for public figures and offers an optional “Username‑Key” for added protection against impersonation.

In parallel, the company is testing a new presence indicator that replaces the traditional “online” text with a small green dot shown beside a contact’s profile picture in the info screen. The dot appears only while the user is actively using WhatsApp and is visible only to contacts who have permission to see online status. Both features are being rolled out incrementally and are not yet available globally.

Regulatory scrutiny has arisen in India, where officials warned that the anonymity of usernames could fuel fraud, prompting Meta to pause the launch there while discussions continue.