WhatsApp to roll out search by username feature

After reports of an underdevelopment feature "username" on WhatsApp, the instant messenger is reportedly working on the option to search people by their usernames on the app.

WABetaInfo recently reported the development of a feature for Android that will enable users to choose a username, but in the latest article, they discussed another option linked to the said update.

"Thanks to this feature [username], users will have the option to interact with others using a distinct identifier, reducing the reliance on phone numbers," the WhatsApp news tracker said.

The latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.25.19 update showed that WhatsApp is working on further improvements regarding the "username" feature for a future update of the app.

This screenshot shows how the updated search bar within the app would look. As you can see, the users will be given options to search by name, username, or number.

As per WABetaInfo, this would enhance the process of connecting and improving privacy by eliminating the need to share personal phone numbers.

"WhatsApp will provide users with a strong layer of privacy thanks to the ability to search for others using a username," the WhatsApp news tracker said, as users will not necessarily need to disclose their phone numbers while connecting.

The users will simply share their usernames, making it easier for others to find and connect with them within the app.

Both the "username" and "search by username" features are under development and will be available in a future update of the app.

It may be noted that the choice to configure a username is totally optional, and users will always have control over this feature as they can remove their current username at any time, WABetaInfo said.