WhatsApp, the leading messaging platform, is reportedly working on a username feature that will allow users to connect without sharing their mobile numbers. Currently, sharing a number is required to chat, but usernames will make connecting easier and more private. This addition follows a string of recent updates, including live and motion picture sharing, Meta AI chat themes, AI-powered video call backgrounds, and document scanning on Android.
WhatsApp news of the week: WhatsApp Is Working on a Username Reservation Feature for Fair and Quicker Access!
Catch up on our 8 updates this week covering WhatsApp beta across Android, iOS, and Desktop!https://t.co/Pmhu5O4i7i pic.twitter.com/KDLhWYCQ6F
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) October 4, 2025
WhatsApp is reportedly working on a username feature that will allow users to connect without sharing their phone numbers. This means your official ID on WhatsApp will no longer be limited to just your number, aligning the platform with other messaging apps like Telegram and Signal. The feature adds an extra layer of privacy while making it easier for others to find you on the app.
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In addition to introducing usernames, WhatsApp is developing a reservation system to ensure fairness. This feature will allow users to reserve their preferred usernames before the system is officially launched, preventing early users from monopolizing popular names.
The reservation functionality has been spotted in WhatsApp Android version 2.25.28.12, according to WABetaInfo. By allowing users to claim usernames in advance, WhatsApp aims to give everyone equal opportunity to secure the username they want once the feature goes live.
📝 WhatsApp for iOS 25.28.74: what’s new?
WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to securely translate messages in 21 different languages, and it’s available to some users!https://t.co/aAwvdXWgo9 pic.twitter.com/17uQA96E57
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) October 6, 2025
The username reservation option will be integrated within the profile section, just below the phone number. Users will be able to select and reserve their usernames directly from their profile before the official rollout, making the transition to a username-based system seamless and organized.
For the unversed, WhatsApp has rolled out an in-app translation feature for iOS users, allowing messages to be translated into 21 languages directly within chats. Available in iOS version 25.28.74, the feature uses Apple’s built-in translation APIs, automatically detecting message languages while also allowing manual selection for accuracy. Users can download offline language packs for translations without internet access, and the feature works across individual chats, group messages, and WhatsApp Channels. All translations occur on-device, keeping user data private, and Android users additionally have the option for automatic chat translations for seamless multilingual conversations.
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