WhatsApp is introducing a major update that lets users search for others by username instead of phone number, a move reminiscent of Telegram and other social media platforms. The feature, already spotted in the beta version for Android (2.25.24.22), is expected to roll out to all users in a future update.
The change could fundamentally alter how people connect on the app, allowing users to start conversations without sharing their phone number while keeping WhatsApp’s encryption and security intact.
How it works
Users will choose a unique username that includes at least one letter, follows a minimum length requirement and meets defined syntax rules. This is intended to prevent impersonation, confusion between accounts and overly similar identifiers. Users can share their username publicly or keep it private, but accounts with usernames will remain searchable within the app.
A new search function in the chat tab will allow users to enter a username in a dedicated field. WhatsApp will scan its database for matches, even if the person isn’t in the user’s contact list. Matching accounts will display the username and profile picture (if set to visible), enabling users to start a conversation immediately—without adding the contact or knowing their phone number. Chats will function like regular conversations, supporting media, voice messages, documents and maintaining full chat history, all while remaining end-to-end encrypted.
Optional security layer
To prevent unwanted contact, WhatsApp offers a “Username Key”—a personal code required to send the first message. Even if someone finds a username, they cannot message the user without the key. This optional feature gives users control over who can initiate contact, similar to privacy settings on Facebook or Instagram.
Using a username will not be mandatory; those who prefer can continue using WhatsApp as usual with their phone number. To combat spam, WhatsApp will also deploy behavior detection systems to report and block users who send unsolicited messages, enforcing compliance with its terms of service.
While not yet officially launched, the beta release indicates the feature is in advanced development and could be available to the public in the coming months.