YouTube and WhatsApp introduce new privacy controls for shared links and usernames

YouTube has added a "Messages" feature that can automatically start a chat when a video link is shared through apps such as WhatsApp or Telegram. The platform explains that the link contains a tracker that reveals the channel name, identifier and profile image to the recipient. Users can disable this connection in the privacy settings under "Visibility of channel in shared links".

WhatsApp is rolling out a username system that lets people open a chat without exchanging phone numbers. Users can reserve a unique username, similar to Telegram or Signal, and choose who may contact them via that name. The feature will be introduced gradually and can be managed in the account settings.

Both changes aim to give users more control over how they are contacted through shared content and messaging apps.