Syed Imran Haider 
The beta version of WhatsApp on Android devices has a new feature that seems to end sole dependence on phone numbers. It will allow users to choose a unique name as their WhatsApp username. Reports confirm that the Meta-owned instant messaging app has begun experimenting with a new feature to let individuals set up unique usernames as email or other social media profiles for their WhatsApp accounts.
Tech analysts expect the new feature will make its way onto the app via a future update. WABetaInfo installed the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android from the Google Play Store and found a significant feature while exploring the new build.
WhatsApp Username Feature
The WABInfo report includes several screenshots showing a new significant option in WhatsApp profile settings. It asks you to type a new and unique username of your choice. Once you choose a unique name for your WhatsApp profile, the app will release you from the sole reliance on your phone number to identify the contact. It will also allow other users to search for you with easy-to-remember usernames.
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp users could search for others with their usernames rather than using their phone numbers and initiate chatting with others. Conversations initiated using a WhatsApp username will be safe as the company uses robust end-to-end encryption to protect these conversations. It proves Meta values data security and user privacy and cannot compromise on these elements over everything else.
WhatsApp users will be able to access the forthcoming feature by clicking the setting menu beneath the profile section of the app. The instant messaging app has first made the new feature a part of its beta version for Android 2.23.11.15, which is available through the Google Play Store.
Frills of the New Username Feature
The move will enable users to enjoy WhatsApp’s functionality with more personalization and significant flexibility. The username for WhatsApp will let users opt for a suitable handle to represent their preferences.
Tech analysts believe the new feature will improve the security and privacy of WhatsApp users who could share their contact details without disclosing their phone numbers. It will also be handy in professional spheres or connecting with new acquaintances. The new feature will let users maintain a certain privacy level while making conservation on the instant-messaging app.
Meta will soon release the under-development feature for beta testing, allowing testers to experiment with the username feature and give feedback. The feature testing process will enable making it available to the general public. While the company has not revealed the specifics of the new feature, tech analysts expect the chats initiated via usernames will have the app’s end-to-end encryption.
Besides the upcoming username feature, WhatsApp launched an exclusive feature, Voice Message Transcription, for iOS platforms with version 2.23.9.70. The new update arrived via the TestFlight Program. Voice Message Transcription will soon be available for Android users. The exclusive WhatsApp feature enables users to read text messages rather than listen to a voice note. It aims to transcribe audio messages to readers, letting them read them if they are out for some work or not in a state to listen to the voice note.
