WhatsApp to allow people chat without using phone numbers

WhatsApp users will no longer have to share phone numbers to exchange messages as part of the latest update to the service.

Instead, people will be able to pick unique usernames to chat with others.

Meta - the owner of WhatsApp - said the move is "designed to protect the privacy of your phone number".

Restricting access to numbers would mean they are not shared automatically in cases such as being added to a large group chat or messaging a person or a business for the first time, the company added.

What's more "there's no directory to browse and no suggestions, so people need to know your exact username to contact you," Meta said.

As with other social media services, the sheer number of people using WhatsApp means that many may not get their first choice of handle.

The company said it would gradually roll out username reservations worldwide "over the coming months", notifying users in each country as it does so.

Meanwhile, "creators, small businesses and organizations" will be allowed to claim WhatsApp usernames they already use on Facebook or Instagram - platforms also owned by Meta - it added.