• By Vikas Yadav
  • Tue, 20 Aug 2024 02:09 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Meta-owned messaging app WhatsApp tests new features at regular intervals across platforms like Android and iOS. In a recent move, the company is developing an advanced username PIN feature, according to WABetaInfo. The option may be available in an upcoming version of the app. This feature with PIN support is undergoing development in the Android beta "2.24.18.2" version to boost the privacy and security of usernames.

According to the report, the company was earlier spotted working on a username feature in May on Android. The feature will allow users to boost the privacy of their accounts while allowing communication via a second medium other than a phone number. With PIN support, the company could be working to bring enhanced safety and security to username-based communication.

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The advanced username feature will allow communication using unique usernames with other WhatsApp accounts without sharing phone numbers in new chats. While users having your phone number may still view it, you may still choose to interact with your username for upcoming conversations, WABetaInfo noted.

The company may also bring an optional PIN feature for the username. It will add a layer of privacy for communication with users with whom you have not interacted in the past. A WhatsApp user may get the option to set a four-digit PIN that you can share with others to facilitate communication. However, this should not include any private information.

Any user who wishes to communicate via your username will have to enter this PIN to start chatting. You can share the PIN with new users to start the conversation. "People you haven't interacted with will need to enter a PIN before they can contact you for the first time," the description of 'Username PIN' said.

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However, existing users in previous conversations will not require this PIN. This optional feature can lend users more control over who can reach out to them via their usernames. Eligible testers should keep their app updated to the latest version from the Google Play Store to ensure they receive the feature whenever it starts rolling out.