By WhatsApp is rolling out a major privacy update that will allow Nigerians and users worldwide to use the app without needing to share their phone numbers, by introducing unique usernames for login and communication.
This new feature, currently in beta testing, promises enhanced privacy and safer interactions starting late 2025.
Owned by Meta, WhatsApp serves over two billion users globally and has long required a phone number for account registration and messaging. However, recent beta versions of WhatsApp for Android and iOS show the introduction of unique usernames, enabling users to create personalised handles as an alternative to phone numbers.
Through these usernames, users can chat and join groups without revealing their personal phone numbers.
The username system allows users to register handles made up of lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols.
While the username reservation feature is available now in WhatsApp’s beta version, the full rollout is anticipated in the coming weeks or months after further verification and conflict prevention measures are tested.
In the past, many WhatsApp users have expressed concern over exposing their personal phone numbers to businesses, unknown contacts, or potential spammers during group interactions.
Given Nigeria’s large WhatsApp user base, estimated at over 100 million mobile internet users relying heavily on messaging apps for personal and business communication, this change could reduce the risk of phone number misuse and identity exposure to scammers.
WhatsApp has not yet announced an exact date for the nationwide rollout in Nigeria, but the beta testing’s positive reception suggests the feature will arrive soon after completion of necessary adjustments. Users can already reserve usernames via the beta app settings to secure their preferred handles ahead of the official launch.
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