WhatsApp now lets you save a contact's username — phone numbers are no longer the only identifier

WhatsApp has started rolling out the ability to save a contact's username, following the earlier introduction of usernames as a feature. The messaging platform now lets users store a username when adding a new contact, alongside their name and phone number. The username field appears between the "First name" and "Last name" fields, separated from the phone number section.

To add a new contact in WhatsApp, users tap the "+" button on the navigation bar of the Chats tab. According to WABetaInfo, once usernames become widely available, WhatsApp will automatically populate the "Username" field when a user creates a new contact from the chat info screen.

The company is gradually shifting its contact identification system away from relying solely on phone numbers toward a model that incorporates usernames. The full rollout of this feature has already begun for a limited number of Android and iOS users. The new system is designed to let people start conversations with individuals and businesses without having to share their phone number. The number still remains the primary account identifier, but a username offers an additional way to find someone without exposing personal details.

Usernames were announced as part of WhatsApp's broader push to enhance privacy and convenience. The feature is now being deployed incrementally, and it is expected to reach all users in the near future, though the company has not provided a specific timeline for the full rollout. This change is particularly useful for those who want to control what information they reveal when connecting with new people in the app, such as in group chats or when responding to business inquiries.

The move also aligns with WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to differentiate itself from other messaging apps by offering more flexible identity options. While the phone number remains the core of account verification and security, the addition of usernames gives users an extra layer of control over their digital footprint. As the feature expands, users will be able to share their username instead of their number, making initial contact less intrusive and more private. The gradual rollout suggests that WhatsApp is testing the system carefully before making it universally available, ensuring stability and user experience meet expectations.