WhatsApp Adds Username Field When Creating New Contacts

WhatsApp is making changes to its contact system as it prepares to introduce usernames more widely. WhatsApp has started rolling out a new username field on the new contact creation screen for both Android and iOS users.

The new field allows users to save a person’s WhatsApp username along with their name and phone number. This could make it easier to keep track of contacts who prefer using a username instead of sharing their phone number.

The feature is currently rolling out gradually. According to WABetaInfo, it is available to some beta testers using the latest versions of WhatsApp, while some users with the stable app may also see it.

How the new username field works

Users can find the new option when creating a contact on WhatsApp. They can open the Chats tab, tap the “+” button and select “New contact.” The usual contact creation page will then appear with a new username field alongside the name and phone number fields.

People who already have a WhatsApp username can share it with others and ask them to save it as part of their contact information.

WhatsApp is preparing this feature ahead of the wider launch of usernames. Once usernames become available to more users, the app is expected to make the process even easier by automatically adding a username when someone creates a contact from the chat information screen.

WhatsApp usernames can hide phone numbers

WhatsApp has been working on usernames as a way for users to communicate without directly sharing their phone numbers. The company has already started allowing some users to reserve their preferred usernames through the app’s settings.

Users can check the option under Settings > Account > Username and select an available handle. WhatsApp has also introduced a username key that gives users more control over who can contact them through their username.

The broader username feature is expected to allow people to connect with new contacts and businesses while keeping their phone numbers private.

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Saved usernames will work with status updates

Saving a username will also connect the contact with WhatsApp’s existing contact system. Users will be able to find saved username contacts in their address book in the same way they find other contacts.

WhatsApp’s status sharing rules will also apply to these contacts. If both users have saved each other’s contact information and their privacy settings allow it, they can see each other’s status updates.

The feature also works with WhatsApp’s recent changes that allow some users to receive status updates from people they have recently interacted with. Users can hide status updates if they do not want to see them.

Why the new feature matters

The username field could be particularly useful during the transition to WhatsApp usernames. For example, someone may know another person’s username but not have their phone number. Instead of asking for the number, they can save the username in advance.

This means users will already have the necessary contact information once usernames become fully available. It could also reduce the need to exchange phone numbers when meeting new people or communicating with businesses.

WhatsApp has not yet confirmed when usernames will become available to everyone. For now, the new username field is reaching selected beta testers on Android and iOS, with some stable-version users also reporting access.

The rollout may take place gradually, so users may not see the option immediately. WhatsApp is expected to provide more details as it gets closer to the wider username launch.