New WhatsApp Feature Allows Hiding Phone Number from Other Accounts

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - WhatsApp can now be used without a phone number. The latest feature replacing the phone number with a username is starting to roll out for some WhatsApp user accounts.

According to a WABetaInfo report, the username feature is appearing on a limited basis with the latest update on Android and iOS. However, not all accounts are receiving the feature.

The username feature can be checked via Settings > Profile. In the Profile section, there will be an additional username field. Some iOS users have reported a pop-up suggesting they create a username.

Users who use a username can “conceal” the phone number used for their WhatsApp account from others. The phone number is still required to access the WhatsApp account.

The names that can be used for WhatsApp accounts must meet the rules:

• Character length between 3-35

• Can use lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores

• Cannot use domain names like www or .com

• Username must include at least one letter character

WhatsApp account owners can link their username with Facebook and Instagram accounts. However, the name cannot be the same as one already used on Facebook and Instagram.

WhatsApp also offers a “username key”, a 4-digit code required to send messages to the new username.