Overview
- WhatsApp said it will add usernames so people can message or call without exposing their phone numbers.
- The company characterized usernames as optional, with phone numbers still used for account verification in the background.
- Reports indicate WhatsApp is aiming for a global rollout by June 2026.
- Coverage says both consumers and businesses will be able to reserve unique, searchable handles.
- Separate reports highlight two experiments: dynamic pricing for business messages (beta in H2 2026, potential launch in Q2 2027) and browser-based Guest Chats that would retain end-to-end encryption.