Dhaka, May 24 -- WhatsApp is set to introduce a username feature that will allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers.

Under the new feature, users will be able to create and share unique usernames, similar to handles used on Telegram and Instagram. When someone contacts a user through a username, only the handle will be visible instead of the phone number.

The username feature will be optional, allowing users to continue using WhatsApp in the current way if they choose.

Each account will be allowed to have one username, which can later be changed without affecting chats or account settings. However, phone numbers will still remain linked to accounts for login and recovery purposes, though they will stay hidden from...