Did you know nearly 2 billion people use WhatsApp to talk? WhatsApp keeps getting better, adding new ways to connect with others. Now, you can find people by their username, not just their phone number.
This change is big. It makes it easier to find and talk to others on WhatsApp. We’ll show you how to use usernames to search for people. It’s a simple way to connect with others.

Introduction to WhatsApp’s Username Feature
WhatsApp now lets users connect with a username. This is a big change. It meets many user needs and helps with privacy.
Understanding the Need for Usernames
Usernames are key for WhatsApp users. They help keep phone numbers private. This is important for safety online.
With usernames, users can talk to others without sharing their number. This makes online chats safer. It’s a big win for digital privacy.
The Shift from Phone Numbers to Usernames
WhatsApp used phone numbers to identify users before. Now, usernames are the new way. This is like what Twitter and Snapchat do.
This change makes using WhatsApp easier. It also draws in more users who want privacy. Knowing how to find a username on WhatsApp is now more important.

How Users Can Be Searched on WhatsApp Using ‘Username’
WhatsApp keeps getting better for users. Now, it has usernames to make connecting easier. Here’s a simple guide to set up your username and use the new search features.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Username
Setting up a username on WhatsApp is easy, especially in the latest beta version. Follow this guide to get your username:
- Launch WhatsApp: Open the app on your device.
- Access Settings: Click the three dots icon in the top right corner.
- Profile Settings: Tap on your profile picture in the Settings menu.
- Edit Username: Select ‘About’ and find the ‘Username’ section.
- Input Your Username: Enter your chosen username and save it.
After setting it up, your username will be your alias. It makes connecting with others easier.
Using Usernames to Search for Contacts
After setting your username, finding contacts is simple. You can search for usernames in WhatsApp’s search feature. This is great for finding people with similar names. It makes finding contacts quick and easy.

Benefits of the WhatsApp Username Search Functionality
WhatsApp usernames bring many benefits, like keeping your info private and making it easier to connect. They help keep your talks safe and private. This is great for today’s world where we want to talk without sharing our phone numbers.
Enhanced Privacy and Security for Users
Using usernames on WhatsApp means you control who you talk to. You can share your username instead of your phone number. This keeps your chats safe from unwanted messages.
It lets you keep your privacy while still chatting with others. This is a big win for keeping your info safe online.
Convenience and Ease of Finding Contacts
WhatsApp usernames also make it easy to find people. Forget their phone number? No problem. You can find them using their username.
This is super helpful for anyone, even if you’re not tech-savvy. It’s great for businesses too, making it easy to talk to customers.
Conclusion
WhatsApp now lets users search for each other by username. This is a big change for how we talk to each other on the app. It makes it safer to connect with others without sharing phone numbers.
This new feature helps keep our personal info safe. It lets us talk to friends or workmates without worrying about privacy. It’s all about keeping our digital chats safe and private.
This change is making WhatsApp even better for chatting. It makes us feel safer when we talk online. It’s a big step forward in how we connect with each other online.
FAQ
How do I set up a username on WhatsApp?
Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots in the top right. Then, tap your profile picture in Settings. Choose ‘About’ and find ‘Username’. Type in your username and save it.
Why is the introduction of usernames significant for WhatsApp users?
Usernames make WhatsApp safer and more private. They let you talk without sharing your phone number. This is great for keeping your info safe while chatting.
Can I search for contacts using usernames instead of phone numbers?
Yes, you can search for contacts by username. Just use WhatsApp’s search function and type in the username. It makes finding friends easier.
What are the benefits of using usernames on WhatsApp?
Usernames keep your chats private and secure. They make it easier to remember who to call. This is especially good for businesses and talking to customers.
Is the username feature available for all WhatsApp users?
The username feature is for users on the latest WhatsApp beta. Soon, it will be available to everyone.
How does the username feature affect privacy on WhatsApp?
Usernames make your chats more private. You can talk without sharing your phone number. This keeps your info safe from strangers.
Joni has been an ECT News Network columnist since 2003. His areas of interest include AI, autonomous driving, drones, personal technology, emerging technology, regulation, litigation, M&E, and technology in politics. He has an MBA in human resources, marketing and computer science. He is also a certified management accountant. Enderle currently is president and principal analyst of the Enderle Group, a consultancy that serves the technology industry. He formerly served as a senior research fellow at Giga Information Group and Forrester. Email Rob.