Khaberni - WhatsApp is currently working on a new test interface that completely hides the phone number when displaying the user profile, and instead shows the username chosen by the person within the app.
The goal of this change is to make the display method of the identity more harmonious with the style of modern social media platforms, and to provide a new layer of privacy for users, especially those who communicate with companies or individuals they do not personally know.
Enhancing privacy
Since its launch, WhatsApp has relied solely on phone numbers as the primary means to identify users. However, this method has exposed user data to many risks, such as the possibility of external parties obtaining their phone numbers.
But the new feature serves to make the username the primary reference for communication within the app, meaning that parties who do not have the user's number will not be able to easily see it within chat lists or when viewing the account's personal information.
According to technical reports, using usernames may provide an additional layer of security for users, with the possibility of protecting their numbers from appearing to strangers or unwanted commercial entities.
This development came after a team of researchers revealed the potential misuse of the phone call feature on WhatsApp for collecting large amounts of data and user numbers.
WhatsApp later clarified that it had addressed this vulnerability, but enhancing protection by introducing usernames appears as an additional solution to reduce such risks.
A modern digital identity
This update reflects WhatsApp's gradual desire to move towards a more flexible and modern digital identity, especially in an environment where messaging and social media platforms compete to offer safer and smoother experiences to users.
The reports also suggest that this step could help companies and brands create a distinctive identity within WhatsApp, facilitating the interaction process with customers without the need to share the phone number directly.
Upcoming expectations
So far, WhatsApp has not officially announced the exact date for launching this feature to the general public, but the tests indicate that it is in development and will be available in stages during upcoming updates within the app.
