WhatsApp decides to copy a feature from Telegram

• WhatsApp will soon roll out a beta with unique usernames
• These identifiers could ultimately replace telephone numbers as a means of identification
• On iOS, however, you will have to wait several more weeks before taking advantage of it.

A beta version of WhatsApp for Android (numbered 2.23.11.15) reveals a functionality ofcreating usernames. However, this is not yet available, and you will probably have to wait several weeks before being entitled to it on iOS. It is not uncommon to see the developer (Meta) offer new features first on smartphones equipped with the Google OS.

The username will be different from the name that can already be changed in WhatsApp settings. It should actually be a unique identification method, such as already exists on Telegram, perhaps also with the character@as a prefix. Internet users will be able tosearch for a contact by typing their username, to then add him without needing his phone number. FINALLY !

A long-awaited asset

Today, to chat with someone on WhatsApp, you need to know their phone number and add it to your phonebook. Besides, the number is the only real “unique identifier” that WhatsApp offers. A positioning that causes a lot of problems when changing operator, losing a SIM card or simply being able to create several accounts at the same time and use them on different devices.

These are the main criticisms made of the platform today (without of course counting those towards its confidentiality policy): not being able to do without a number to take advantage of it. An argument that has lasted for almost ten years, even though many alternatives today offer to connect with a completely anonymized identifier, without the slightest mobile plan to associate.

WhatsApp is becoming more and more autonomous

WhatsApp already hadpermit, not long ago, to use your account on two different smartphones. With this, several months beforehand, the possibility of conversing from a computer had arrived even if theiPhoneor the associated Android mobile is turned off.

The app therefore seems to be turning more and more towards across-platform useand operation detached from the major constraints of previous versions, including a subscription. Despite everything, this still remains mandatory, which is really not easy for those who install the app on PC. But with the arrival of the unique identifier, it is a safe bet that users will be able to choose between this means and their number to be found. Maybe not from the first edition of the functionality, but eventually: fingers crossed.