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WhatsApp to Replace Numbers With Usernames

WhatsApp has announced it is planning to replace phone numbers with usernames.
According to reports, WhatsApp is already testing a groundbreaking feature that could allow users to connect without revealing their phone numbers
The Meta-owned platform is working on a username system — similar to what exists on Instagram, Telegram, and X — in what could become one of the app’s biggest privacy upgrades yet.
The feature, currently in beta testing, will let users create unique usernames to chat and join groups without exposing their numbers. This move aims to enhance privacy, particularly in large community groups and business interactions where sharing personal contacts can feel intrusive.
Leaked screenshots reveal a new “Username” option within user profiles, giving people the ability to pick custom handles and decide whether to hide their phone numbers.
However, experts warn that the update could lead to challenges like username hijacking and impersonation. To tackle this, WhatsApp reportedly plans to roll out verification and security measures alongside the new system.
Though still in development, the username feature could redefine how over two billion users communicate on WhatsApp — shifting the focus from numbers to names.
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Russia blocks voice calls on WhatsApp, Telegram over security concerns

Russia has moved to curb voice calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing the foreign-owned platforms of refusing to share user data with law enforcement in cases involving fraud and terrorism.

The country’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, said the partial restrictions were aimed at countering criminal activity, with other features of the apps left untouched. Access to calls, officials said, would be restored once the platforms complied with Russian legislation.

The move marks the latest escalation in Moscow’s long-running standoff with global tech companies, a dispute that has intensified since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Critics argue the Kremlin is using such measures to tighten control over the internet and push “digital sovereignty” by promoting state-backed and homegrown services.

President Vladimir Putin has already authorised the development of a government-integrated messaging app to reduce dependence on foreign platforms.

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, defended its refusal to hand over data, stressing that the platform is private, end-to-end encrypted, and resistant to government surveillance. Telegram said it actively removes millions of harmful posts daily, including calls for violence and fraud-related content.

Reports indicate that Telegram voice calls have been largely non-functional since 11 August, while WhatsApp calls produce intermittent audio and metallic noises, rendering them unusable.

Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the State Duma’s IT committee, said the companies would need to establish legal entities in Russia and work directly with regulators and law enforcement before restrictions could be lifted.

Meta was declared an extremist organisation in Russia in 2022, though WhatsApp remained operational until now despite receiving fines for hosting banned content.

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WhatsApp Introduces Screen-Sharing During Video Calls

WhatsApp has announced a new feature.
WhatsApp introduced a new screen-sharing feature to enhance the video calling experience on its platform.
The announcement was made by Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta on Tuesday via Facebook.
The new feature will allow users to share documents, photos, and even their shopping cart with contacts available on video calls.
 
“We are thrilled to introduce the ability to share your screen during WhatsApp video calls,” Zuckerberg said.
In a statement, AT3 Resources, a consulting firm overseeing Meta’s operations in Nigeria, highlighted the versatility of the feature for both personal and professional contexts.
The company said users can now utilise landscape mode on smartphones during video calls.
The statement added that the new feature will help to enhance the visual and sharing experience and create a more immersive interaction.
 
“This feature is particularly useful for both personal and professional scenarios,” the statement reads.
“Also, WhatsApp users can now enjoy video calls in landscape mode on smartphones.
 
“This enhancement offers a wider and more immersive viewing and sharing experience during video calls.”
The new feature not only positions itself against traditional video conferencing apps like Microsoft Meet, Google Meet, and Zoom but also competes with Apple’s FaceTime.
Last month, WhatsApp introduced an instant video messaging feature.
The chat locking feature was unveiled in June, offering users an additional layer of privacy and security.

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