WhatsApp Tests Username Keys to Make First-Time Chats Safer

WhatsApp is testing a new feature that will make first-time chats safer for users. The messaging app is introducing username keys to control who can start a conversation with you. This feature is currently part of the beta channel, but it should become available to all regular users in the coming months.

WhatsApp Android beta 2.26.2.2 brings a new privacy feature

As you know, WhatsApp accounts are linked to phone numbers, meaning anyone who has your number can message you. However, for the past few months, the company has been testing a username-based account system. This allows people to start a chat with you using your username, even if they don’t have your phone number saved in their contacts.

In WhatsApp beta version 2.26.2.2 (for Android), as spotted by WABetaInfo, the company is testing a feature that requires users to enter a username key before starting a chat for the first time. This key serves as an extra layer of security, though the system only asks if the recipient has decided to restrict first-time conversations.

Now, when someone tries to message a key-enabled username-based account, a dedicated screen will show up asking for the key. The description reads, “Since you haven’t interacted with the account yet, you need to enter their username key first”. That means users cannot send messages or make calls until they enter the correct key. This ensures that only people who obtain the key from the account owner can start a conversation.

This feature comes in handy if you want to share your username publicly, especially if you are a content creator or public figure. You can let people find your account without worrying about getting random messages. As is often the case, WhatsApp has not yet confirmed when it will bring the username-based system and the username key feature to the stable channel. We’ll be sure to let you know as more details become available.