The feature, which is among the most significant changes introduced to the messaging application in recent years, is designed to give users greater control over their privacy while interacting online.
Once fully launched, users will be able to create unique usernames that can be shared instead of personal mobile numbers when starting conversations with new contacts.
The move will bring WhatsApp closer to other major social and messaging platforms such as telegram and instagram, where usernames have long been used as public identities for communication and interaction.
According to reports by TelecomTalk, the feature is currently being tested among a limited number of users across Android, iOS, web, and desktop versions of the application ahead of a broader rollout expected later this year.
The update is expected to significantly change how users interact on the platform, especially when communicating with people they do not know personally or when joining communities, business discussions, and public groups.
Currently, WhatsApp users are required to exchange mobile phone numbers before initiating conversations, a system that has often raised privacy concerns among users who prefer to keep their personal contact information private.
With the introduction of usernames, users will have the option to maintain greater anonymity while still remaining accessible to others on the platform.
Technology analysts say the feature could improve user safety and reduce unwanted exposure of personal details, particularly for professionals, business owners, online sellers, and users participating in public or community discussions.
The new system is also expected to make it easier for users to connect across different regions without necessarily revealing sensitive personal information linked to their phone numbers.
Reports indicate that WhatsApp is still refining the feature before its full public launch.
During the testing phase, selected users are being allowed to create usernames and explore how the system works across different devices and operating systems.
Although the company has not yet announced an exact release date for the wider rollout, expectations are high among users who have long requested additional privacy tools similar to those offered by rival messaging platforms.
The username feature forms part of a broader push by WhatsApp to strengthen user privacy and modernise communication on the platform as competition among messaging applications continues to grow globally.