Centre Asks Meta to Hold Off on WhatsApp Username Rollout Pending Consultations

The Centre has asked Meta to put the rollout of WhatsApp’s upcoming username feature on hold, directing the company not to launch it until consultations with the government are completed.

In a notice issued to Meta, the government has sought a detailed explanation of the proposed feature within three days. It has also instructed the company not to roll out the feature until the consultation process is concluded.

The proposed username feature will allow WhatsApp users to connect with others using a unique username instead of sharing their mobile phone numbers. The change is aimed at enhancing user privacy by reducing the need to disclose personal contact details while interacting on the messaging platform.

According to Meta’s rollout plan, the feature was expected to be introduced in phases. Users would first be allowed to reserve their preferred usernames before the broader public launch later this year. The company said it decided to open early reservations because of WhatsApp’s global user base of more than 3 billion people.

In a statement, Meta said the feature has been “designed to protect the privacy of your phone number”, adding that usernames are intended to offer users another way to communicate without revealing their mobile numbers.

The government has not publicly detailed its concerns but has asked Meta to provide further clarification before proceeding with the rollout. Until the consultation process is complete, the feature will remain on hold.