WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that promises enhanced privacy for its Android users. Known as Username keys, this feature consists of two components, according to insights shared by a WhatsApp feature tracker. The first component is the username, intended to eliminate the need for users to disclose their phone numbers when sharing their WhatsApp accounts. The second component, Username keys, is designed to give users control over whether they permit first-time contacts to reach out via text.
As detailed by WABetaInfo, a source known for tracking WhatsApp’s developments, the Username keys feature aims to streamline the process of managing incoming messages from unfamiliar users. This innovation was initially detected in the beta version of the WhatsApp application for Android, specifically in update 2.25.22.9, although it is not yet accessible to beta testers.
Images shared by the feature tracker suggest that WhatsApp’s anticipated username functionality will facilitate account sharing without the necessity of providing phone numbers. Users wishing to connect with someone through WhatsApp will simply share their username, a method reminiscent of how users find and message others on Telegram.
Additionally, the platform intends to introduce a Username key, which consists of a four-digit PIN. Screenshots indicate that to enable first-time messaging with a user, one would need to provide both the username and the corresponding key. Consequently, individuals lacking this key will be unable to contact the user, even if they have access to the username. This security measure will not impact ongoing conversations or those who already possess the user’s phone number.
In a separate development, WABetaInfo has also noted that WhatsApp is expanding its real-time voice chat feature with Meta AI to users on the iOS platform. The beta update 25.21.10.76 for iOS reveals the option to engage in two-way voice conversations with an AI chatbot. This voice chat functionality was previously available to Android users and is expected to be rolled out widely to iOS users in the coming weeks.
