WhatsApp has always put a lot of effort into keeping our chats private. The teams at Meta work hard to keep users safe. They want to stop just anyone from reaching out to you. A new discovery shows a big step in this direction. It brings usernames and adds a special number, a numerical key, to go with them.
Users have wanted usernames, or aliases, on WhatsApp for a long time. The chat app is also working on other improvements, like its web version. A recent change surfaced for an important feature. It was once known as a PIN. Now, it is called a “username key.” This key will let you choose a specific code. You share this code with others so they can add you as a contact.
This new system is mostly for one simple reason. If someone knows your username, they could easily add you. This new user key, which was called a PIN in older versions, will be essential. It acts as a gatekeeper for adding contacts. This big step means you won’t have to share your phone number anymore. WhatsApp has been working on this kind of protection for many years. The name “username key” clearly shows its purpose. It is a unique code. It lets someone connect with you through your chosen username.
The only slightly tricky part is this: you’ll share a username, which can be hard to remember. But you’ll also need to share a numerical key, a secret number, along with it. The main goal is to guard the privacy of users. These users prefer creating a username to avoid giving out their mobile phone number.
WhatsApp wants to make the purpose of this secret code clear. Who knows, they might even change its name again. This development has been in the works for months. It’s interesting to note that Telegram has used usernames for many years. So, we are still waiting for WhatsApp to fully bring this new privacy feature to everyone.
WaBetaInfo found this name change in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.22.9. If you have this version, you might get to try it out. However, only a few people are currently testing this new addition.