WhatsApp testing feature that helps identify unknown callers with usernames: Here’s how it will work

WhatsApp is already preparing for an important update to its search and calling experience, with the new beta build hinting at features that will allow users to find and contact others using usernames rather than phone numbers. According to WaBetaInfo, the WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.34.10.70 includes a feature that displays usernames when users search for unfamiliar phone numbers.

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Previous beta updates confirmed that WhatsApp is developing a system that will allow users to enter a username into the search bar and make voice or video calls directly from the results page. The Meta-owned platform aims to provide increased privacy and convenience by allowing users to connect without sharing their phone numbers.

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How it works

When a user enters an unknown phone number into the search field, WhatsApp now links usernames to accounts in the most recent beta version. If a match is found, the app will display the associated username as well as limited profile information, such as a profile photo, depending on privacy settings. Phone numbers will continue to appear when users search for them directly, but they will be hidden when the search is done using a username.

When users search for an unsaved contact on WhatsApp, the phone number and profile picture (if visible) are currently displayed. The app usually doesn’t reveal the push name until there has been interaction, making it difficult to determine who an unknown number belongs to. The upcoming username system aims to address this issue by providing clearer identifiers, allowing users to make better decisions about new conversations or calls.

After the usernames are introduced, the feature will provide numerous benefits, including increased transparency, improved user identification, and reduced confusion when receiving messages from unfamiliar contacts.

WhatsApp’s official documentation states that usernames will be available in 2026. Businesses have been instructed to ensure compatibility with usernames and business-scoped IDs before the June 2026 deadline. Regular users are expected to gain access to the feature later this year.

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Ashish Singh

Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek. View Full Profile