NEW YORK (Kashmir English): As a part of the much-anticipated feature of the app, WhatsApp has started testing usernames with a small group of beta testers in Android and iPhone phones.
It has been one of the most important updates regarding privacy, which people have been waiting for quite a while in 2026.
The latest update, according to the sources at WABetaInfo, will enable people to contact and interact without giving away their mobile numbers. Users will be able to come up with unique usernames, which they can use for communication. This move would ensure users enjoy better privacy since they would feel more confident using usernames, which no one else will know.
In addition to this feature, WhatsApp also plans to provide users with a 4-digit secret code. In such a case, if someone knows about the user’s identity through the username, the person will require another key for connecting, ensuring additional protection from spam.
However, a phone number will still be required for creating a WhatsApp account; it just won’t be visible anymore.
How to Use User Name Feature in WhatsApp
The ability for users to choose their username straight through their settings can now be done easily by simply accessing the app’s profile menu where they can pick the ‘username’ option.
Additionally, it can now be possible for users to link up their WhatsApp username with their current usernames in Facebook or Instagram. This feature is still being tested and may soon become available for everyone.
WhatsApp call quality to get enhanced with new upgrade
Earlier, WhatsApp has created a new noise cancellation function for voice and video calls, which users will find in the latest Android beta version of their app.
The function currently exists in development phases, but the team releases it to beta testers through gradual deployment. The upcoming feature will automatically reduce background noise that occurs during calls.
The system improves voice comprehension in areas that experience wind, vehicle traffic, and human crowd noise. The feature enables users to filter out external sounds, which results in better call comprehension for both parties involved in the conversation.
Toggle Available in Call Menu
Users will be able to enable or disable noise cancellation through a toggle located in the call interface. The system will automatically activate the feature when users first start using it.
Users have the ability to switch the feature between active and inactive states based on their personal requirements and the current environment. The feature is currently being tested with a limited group of Android beta users.
The testing phase will enable system expansion to all Android users within the upcoming weeks or months if it continues to run without problems.
