The new feature could allow users to replace their phone numbers with usernames, providing additional privacy. This change means that users can choose not to share their mobile numbers with everyone. WhatsApp will offer three privacy settings: “Username,” “Phone number,” and “Username with PIN.”

Selecting the Username option allows users to hide their phone numbers and only show the username to others. However, please note that existing contacts who already have your phone number will still be able to see it, but new contacts will only see your username in the profile section.

The third option, “Username with PIN,” introduces a four-digit PIN that users can share with specific people. Only those who have that PIN will be able to connect with the user on WhatsApp. While this feature is designed to give users more control over their privacy, it does have a potential downside. Contacts who already have your phone number will still be able to send you messages even when the PIN feature is enabled.

This feature is described as an optional tool and is designed to give users more control over who can contact them on WhatsApp. Currently, users of WhatsApp Android beta version 2.24.18.2 can access and test this feature. However, users of the stable Android version will have to wait for the feature to roll out in a future update.

Additionally, WhatsApp is set to introduce a feature that will allow users to express their appreciation for status updates with a quick “like” reaction. This feature, similar to Instagram’s story likes, is expected to make it easier for users to notice and interact with content shared by their contacts.

Reports from WABetaInfo suggest that the Like Reactions feature is currently being tested with public beta users and has been in the works for some time. To like a status update, users can tap a heart emoji icon in the bottom left corner of the screen when viewing the update. This action will send a notification to the person who posted the status, letting them know that they received a like. Additionally, users can see who liked their statuses by checking the list of default views.

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Published: August 20, 2024, 3:10 PM IST