WhatsApp To Bring Search By Username Feature: What Is It, How It Works

The Meta-owned instant messaging application WhatsApp is reportedly working on a feature to search users by their username. With this feature, users will have the option to interact with others using a distinct identifier, reducing the reliance on phone numbers.

“Thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.25.19 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on further improvements regarding this feature for a future update of the app,” WABetaInfo reported.

According to the report, the search bar will allow users to search for other users by their username, enhancing the process of connecting and improving privacy by eliminating the need to share personal phone numbers. The report mentioned that the choice to configure a username is totally optional, and users will always have control over this feature as they can remove their current username at any time.

It also suggested that WhatsApp will provide users with a strong layer of privacy thanks to the ability to search for others using a username.

Users will be able to connect with others without necessarily disclosing their phone numbers. This is particularly beneficial for those who wish to maintain a level of anonymity or control over their personal information.

“In addition, searching for users by usernames will simply the process of connecting with friends, family, or other people as it eliminates the need to ask for and exchange phone numbers explicitly. Users will simply share their usernames, making it easier for others to find and connect with them within the app,” said WABetaInfo.

A feature to search users by their username is under development and it will be available in a future update of the app, it added.

In related news, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has introduced a secret code feature for Chat Lock on WhatsApp, adding an additional layer of privacy for millions of users to protect sensitive chats on the platform.

Once a code is created, it can be used to hide the locked chats so that they only appear when typed into the search bar.