WhatsApp is introducing usernames as a new feature designed to enhance user privacy. This update will allow individuals to connect and chat on the platform without needing to exchange phone numbers. The rollout begins this week, initially allowing users to create and share usernames alongside their existing phone number-based profiles. Users will have full control over who can see their username, with privacy settings including options to share with everyone, contacts only, or nobody. WhatsApp states this feature aims to address concerns about phone number privacy and provide a more secure communication experience. The company plans to eventually allow users to solely rely on usernames for communication, phasing out the necessity of phone numbers altogether. This change is intended to mirror the functionality of other messaging platforms and offer greater flexibility to its billions of users.