WhatsApp introduced a Username feature in June, letting users reserve usernames to communicate privately without sharing phone numbers. Building on this, the platform is now testing a new privacy feature that gives granular control over who can see a user’s phone number. Discovered by WABetaInfo in beta version 2.26.45.1 for Android, the feature offers four visibility options: Everyone, My contacts, My contacts except..., and Nobody. It will only be available to users with a username, though existing contacts who already know the number will still see it. By default, the visibility will be set to "Nobody," automatically protecting users who prefer anonymity. Those who want their number visible for business or other reasons can adjust the setting. The feature is still under development and not yet accessible to beta users, awaiting a beta release and eventual public rollout.
The new control expands WhatsApp’s privacy toolkit, ensuring users can tailor their phone number exposure while maintaining the core username‑based communication experience.
Source: GSMArena · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing