Messaging giant WhatsApp is making it easier for users to add and manage their contacts, regardless of which device they’re using. The company announced today that it will soon allow users to perform these actions directly from WhatsApp Web and Windows versions of the app.
Previously, adding contacts was limited to mobile devices, requiring users to either manually type in a phone number or scan a QR code. This new feature expands functionality, allowing for a more seamless experience across all platforms.
More Control Over Your Contacts:
In addition to desktop access, WhatsApp is introducing the option to save contacts exclusively within the app. These “WhatsApp contacts” are designed to provide greater privacy and control, particularly for users who share their phones with others or manage multiple WhatsApp accounts.
This feature allows users to separate personal and business contacts, ensuring that sensitive information remains private. Importantly, these WhatsApp-specific contacts will be restored if a user loses their phone or switches devices.
Looking Ahead: Usernames on WhatsApp?
While the focus of this update is on contact management, WhatsApp also hinted at a future feature that could significantly impact privacy: usernames. The company suggests that usernames could eventually replace phone numbers as the primary method for connecting with others on the platform. This would allow users to message each other without sharing their personal phone numbers, enhancing security and anonymity.
While details about username implementation are still scarce, this announcement marks a significant step towards a more private and user-centric WhatsApp experience.