WhatsApp will allow users to "reserve" name in new update

The new update to WhatsApp's privacy policies will allow users to "reserve" their name in the application. The measure is a way of preserving identity without revealing the phone number and will offer the option of sharing only a unique username, used for other users to get in touch. Sharing can be done on the platform itself.

Name reservations will open this Monday (29), allowing users to choose their preferred name before the global launch. When reservations are available, users will be notified in the app itself. A name generator will be available to help you choose and avoid repetition.

The name will be a way of controlling who can send messages, in addition to accessing the phone number. The feature can be enabled in settings as "Username Key". This way, anyone trying to send a message for the first time must enter the exact username chosen for the contact key.

The feature will mainly benefit content creators, micro-entrepreneurs and small organizations that want to use the same username on different platforms and guarantee brand authenticity. It will be possible for other users to find the same profile with the same name as the Instagram and/or Facebook accounts.

WhatsApp will allow users to reserve names in new update - Disclosure
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Source: CNN