Encrypted messaging app Signal, also known as WhatsApp rival, is testing public account usernames to eliminate the need for users to share their phone numbers when connecting to the service. Currently, new Signal users must share their phone numbers with others to connect.
Signal VP of engineering Jim O’Leary took to micro-blogging platform X (previously called Twitter) and wrote: “Signal is testing username feature. This would mean that you would not have to provide your phone number to people you want to contact. You will be able to set your phone number as private and not share it.”
Although the new method still requires users to associate a phone number with their account during setup, the number is not shared with other users when they communicate, making communication even more private and secure.
Signal users who install the new build can share their usernames via QR code or link, allowing others to contact them without needing to know their phone number. Users can also disable phone number discovery in the app’s Settings under Privacy > Phone number > Who can find my number.
“Signal has been working on usernames since at least 2019, but it is not known when the feature will be ready for primetime. Using the pre-beta build on desktop and iOS today requires some technical knowhow involving code compiling, more information about which can be found in the Signal forums,” MacRumors reported.
Meanwhile, Signal rival WhatsApp is also testing this similar feature. The new feature will enable users to set up usernames for their accounts, instead of mobile numbers.
Users will be able to access the new feature through the settings menu under the profile section. With the introduction of the username feature, users will get a chance to choose a handle that represents their preferences. The new feature is also expected to enhance the security as well as the privacy of the users.
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