According to GizChina, WhatsApp is set to make some huge modifications. The popular messaging platform may introduce a feature that will enable users to create usernames which can be searched. It will also limit contact to phone numbers that are known to the user. This alteration was discovered by WABetaInfo, a portal which examines test versions of the app.
Although there is limited information available, it does however seem that this alteration is intended to bolster the privacy of those who use the app. Advanced end-to-end encryption technology ensures that all conversations hosted by users with unique names remain secure and confidential. This means that no one besides the user can access them, providing an extra layer of protection.
With the growing importance of data privacy, it is a welcome move to remove the need to expose a personal phone number. Although we do not know when usernames will be available in WhatsApp, this will certainly help keep user identities secure. The newest edition of sent messages took more than a year to move from the testing phase into being a part of the stable program.
Discord takes the concept of unique usernames a step further by allowing users to customize their own nickname on each server, unlike other messaging services. This way, users are able to create personalised user names that make them easily identifiable and distinguishable from others.
It’s important that we have the option to search by username in WhatsApp, yet they need to make it an optional setting. This way, we can avoid random people from reaching out to us after discovering our unique nickname. WhatsApp’s move to introduce usernames is an encouraging one as it will enhance user privacy and make the app more accessible for those who prefer not to share their phone number. It promises to be a beneficial step forward.
Should this feature be implemented as an optional setting, WhatsApp will have a stronger foundation for continuing to develop it further.
