WhatsApp may replace phone numbers with usernames
WhatsApp is constantly working to improve communication experiences. The latest update, WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.23.11.15, introduces an exciting new feature that could change how users interact on the platform.
WABetaInfo has discovered a new feature called WhatsApp Usernames in the latest beta update. Although not yet available to beta testers, we got a sneak peek. WhatsApp is adding a special section in the app's settings where users can create unique usernames for their accounts.
You will be able to set a username on WhatsApp
WhatsApp Usernames allow users to personalize their presence on the platform. Instead of relying only on phone numbers, users can choose memorable usernames, adding an extra layer of privacy, access, and protection.
A dedicated section has been added to the Android version of the app in WhatsApp Settings > Profile that lets users set up their desired WhatsApp usernames.
Short usernames instead of long phone numbers
WhatsApp Usernames could revolutionize communication on the platform. One use could be private communication between users and businesses, keeping personal phone numbers confidential, and ensuring secure interactions. Usernames may also enable private communication between any users within the WhatsApp community. The full capabilities of WhatsApp Usernames will become clearer as the feature continues to be developed.
WhatsApp is committed to maintaining high standards of privacy and security. Conversations initiated through usernames will be protected by end-to-end encryption, ensuring the confidentiality of user communications.
The upcoming update, featuring the WhatsApp Usernames feature, will undergo testing to provide a seamless and secure experience.
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The question is, will users still be required to disclose their phone number to WhatsApp? So, will WhatsApp be able to associate all data collected by the app with a real person, and correlate data across devices and even with other services offered by Meta?
No phone number = fraud, scam, spam, robbery, phishing, malware. The only way to maintain Whatsapp secure is to have a tested true mobile number. Anonymity is impunity.
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“No phone number = fraud, scam, spam, robbery, phishing, malware. The only way to maintain Whatsapp secure is to have a tested true mobile number. Anonymity is impunity.”
Give me your full name and address and I’ll make you pay for that comment. Just joking here, but please don’t downplay the importance of privacy in the current times, it’s not because you never experienced repression that it will never happen to you in the future.
User names are “an exciting” new feature.
Signal will have that too, in few months
Still it’s owned by the Zuckerberg Cult. Still it wants your phonenumber. Anyone with half a brain stays away from Whatsapp, doesn’t matter if all friends, family and coworkers use it. That’s not the point, they all have braincancercovidalzheimermadcow-disease, does that mean you should too? Nope.
I use WIRE, and anyone that wants to communicate with me has to use WIRE as well, end of story. They whatsapp herd will bitch and whine at first, but in the end they will crumble like the sheep they are. One more app in their phones among the 600 other apps they have installed doesn’t matter.