The WhatsApp update brings the ability to search for users by username
Novo WhatsApp update will allow users to communicate with strangers without sharing their phone number
Earlier this year, it was mentioned that WhatsApp was working on introducing usernames to the app. Beta version of the popular messaging platform on Android it was just spotted with an option that would allow users to set a username for their profile.
App owned by the company Meta is now working on a new option that will allow you to search for other users on the app by their username. This option is reportedly under development for a future app update on Android devices.
According to the always reliable WABetaInfo portal, the messaging app is refining the username option so that WhatsApp users can search for other people on the app by searching their username. Similar to Telegram's username search, this new WhatsApp update potentially allows users to communicate with strangers without sharing their phone number.
WhatsApp update allows users to set and change username
The report also stated that this option will be available in WhatsApp version 2.23.25.19 update via Google Play Beta Program. Also shared is a screenshot of the app, where you can see a search bar that allows you to search for users by name, username or number.
This option would make communication on this platform more private, because users would no longer have to share their number in order to start a new chat with one of the users. Users can also choose to set a unique username, change it, or remove it entirely.
WABetaInfoThe ability to search for users by username will be introduced as part of a future update. No other details about this option or its release are available yet.
Last month, it was reported that WhatsApp was also working on usernames for channels that would allow channel subscribers to enter a username to open a channel.
In October, the company was noted to be working on a new username picker on the WhatsApp beta for iOS 2.23.20.71. According to the report, setting a unique username, which will accept letters, numbers and some special characters, will be optional.
WhatsApp is working on some more privacy-enhancing features on this messaging app. It recently introduced a new Secret Code feature for locked conversations, which allows users to hide sensitive conversations behind a code. Locked Conversations already protects selected conversations via a device PIN or password, or by scanning the user's face or fingerprint.
Another novelty that has been officially launched today is the sharing of photos, videos and other files in full quality. This WhatsApp update has arrived for iOS users in the version of the application 23.24.73 and is obtained through the update on the AppStore.