JUST IN: WhatsApp to Ditch Phone Numbers — Usernames Take Center Stage

In what could turn out to be one of the most transformative shifts in its history, WhatsApp is reportedly preparing to overhaul its identity system by letting users replace phone numbers with usernames. The change, spotted in beta testing by insiders, would allow people to chat and join groups using unique handles instead of exposing their personal digits. If it comes to fruition, this update might upend how over two billion users across the globe connect and interact.

The username feature has emerged in WhatsApp’s Android beta build 2.25.28.12, where select users have been able to reserve usernames ahead of an official rollout. In those test versions, a new “Username” field is visible in profile settings, alongside options to control how and whether your phone number is shared. The platform is reportedly crafting a reservation system to let early adopters lock in desired handles before the full release, thereby curbing name squatting and impersonation.

Until now, WhatsApp has anchored each user’s identity entirely to a phone number—new accounts are tied to SIM cards, and in group chats your number is often visible to all members. For users who frequently switch numbers or wish to maintain more control over who sees their contact info, this architecture has long been seen as limiting. The username system aims to decouple your account identity from your SIM line, giving users greater flexibility and privacy.

In practice, once active, other users would search or enter your chosen handle to connect rather than dialing in your number. From leaked screenshots, it appears usernames would follow familiar rules—unique, comprised of letters, numbers, perhaps underscores or dots—but would not allow duplicates. Privacy controls are expected, enabling you to decide whether or not your actual phone number is revealed to someone once your username is shared. Still, many technical and social questions loom: what happens if two users want the same name, how will impersonation be policed, and how will businesses be verified?

Critics have already flagged risks. Username squatting—reserving catchy names before others can claim them—could quickly become rampant. The possibility of impersonation or fraudulent accounts masquerading under names similar to your own is another serious concern. To counteract this, WhatsApp is expected to implement identity verification tools or tagging mechanisms.

The motivation for this change is clear: privacy, convenience, and competitive pressure. Globally, users are increasingly wary of sharing personal identifiers. Allowing usernames mitigates exposure of personal phone numbers in large groups, business chats, or when connecting with new contacts. It also removes the need for knowing someone’s country code or number when communicating across borders—just enter their handle. And when comparing to rivals like Telegram or Signal—which already support handles—WhatsApp’s move helps it remain competitive in the privacy messaging space.

The transition won’t be instant. The username feature is still under testing, and WhatsApp often phases in features selectively before wider adoption. Analysts expect a gradual rollout, likely beginning with beta users on Android and iOS, before reaching the wider userbase sometime later in 2025. If the release proceeds smoothly, WhatsApp may present usernames as an optional alternative—users can still use phone numbers if they prefer.

This pivot has deeper implications for how digital identity works on mobile messaging platforms. Should WhatsApp fully decouple identity from phone numbers, it may open doors to new authentication models—for instance tying your identity to your username and cryptographic keys rather than a SIM. Plus, it might reduce vulnerabilities tied to phone number-based attacks (e.g. SIM swap, number spoofing).

For billions of users, the change means you may soon tell people, “Find me on WhatsApp at @YourName,” instead of sharing your number. For those who’ve long hesitated to add someone lest their digits get exposed, that could be liberating. But until WhatsApp iron out verification, naming conflicts, and security safeguards, users will be watching closely as this dramatic reimagining unfolds.

Stay tuned—because if this shift actually lands, WhatsApp won’t just be about numbers anymore. It will be about names, identity, and privacy in a whole new way.