WhatsApp Channels To Get Username Feature Instead Of Phone Number: All Details

After encrypted messaging app Signal recently announced that is testing username feature to eliminate the need for users to share their phone numbers on the app, the Meta-owned popular instant messaging WhatsApp is now reportedly working on similar feature for Channels.

The feature to create a username for channels is under development and it will be available in a future update of the app.

“Thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.24.17 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature to associate a username with channels,” WABetaInfo reported.

According to the report, the Meta-owned app is working on bringing handle support for channels. This means that it will be possible to open specific channels by using their usernames.

The update is expected to include additional functionalities for channels, such as a personalised channel link based on their current username, making it even more convenient for channel owners and followers to share and discover their favorite channels.

The report suggested that, this feature will bring important advantages to the user experience. Users will be able to share channel information more consistently by using usernames, since this finally eliminates the need to share complex channel links.

In addition, channels can establish a more recognizable presence by having a unique username. “We think that this is especially beneficial for anyone who want to build a distinct identity and make its channel easily accessible,” said WABetaInfo.

In addition, WhatsApp has still plans to replace the green verification badge with a blue checkmark for verified channels and businesses in the future. The messaging app is also developing a feature to allow users to choose a username for their WhatsApp profile.

The Meta-owned app is also working on a feature to search messages by date, allowing users to search for messages by their specific dates, offering a level of precision that makes navigating message history easier.