WhatsApp May Add Usernames and Ads – Big Shifts Ahead
WhatsApp is testing username handles and plans to show ads starting this December.
WhatsApp is reportedly preparing two major changes that could reshape how people use the app: first, letting users choose unique usernames, and second, introducing ads.
In the latest beta version, a “reserve username” feature has been spotted. Users will be able to lock in handles in advance so others can’t claim them.
These usernames might let you chat with someone without sharing your phone number a privacy boost if it works as intended.
That said, WhatsApp will likely place restrictions on what names you can choose. For example, names starting with “www.” or names that contain only numbers or special characters may not be allowed.
On the flip side, ads are coming. According to reports and leaks, starting December, WhatsApp may show ads before you view someone’s status or even within chat screens.
These ads would not appear in personal messages themselves, which remain end-to-end encrypted, but they could be present in “Updates” or status sections.
Many long‐time users, including tech commentators, warn that ads in core parts of WhatsApp could alienate users, especially given the app’s historical stance against advertising.
That said, Meta plans to begin personalizing ad content using limited data (language, location, etc.) and may integrate AI interaction data across its platforms.
Because both features (usernames and ads) are still in testing or rumor stages, we don’t have official launch dates. But the changes hint at a new era for WhatsApp one less dependent on mobile numbers and more reliant on monetization.
