WhatsApp expands usernames and redesigns interface in new updates

Meta's WhatsApp is introducing several major updates across its platforms. A new username feature lets users start chats by sharing an @‑handle instead of a phone number, improving privacy and reducing spam. The rollout is proceeding in stages, with pre‑booking available from late June and broader availability expected by the end of the year. Users can still keep their phone number for authentication and recovery.

On iOS, a redesign of the bottom navigation bar replaces the "Updates" tab with a "Contacts" tab, reorganising calls, Meta AI, chat and profile sections. Beta testers have also reported a visual overhaul called "Liquid Glass", giving chat bars and buttons a translucent, fluid look. A private "Side Chat" panel for Meta AI is being tested, allowing AI conversations in a separate space that uses Private Processing to keep user data unlinked from Meta.

Additionally, WhatsApp is switching its GIF search provider from Tenor to Giphy after Google discontinued Tenor’s public APIs. The change will be seamless for users, though some GIFs may differ.

These features are currently limited to beta users in regions such as Brazil, Italy, the United States and Taiwan, with wider releases planned in the coming weeks.