WhatsApp is one of the most used messaging apps in India, thanks to its simplicity and a lot of useful features. One of the main reasons why the app works for most Indians is that it has absolutely no bugs and ads and has a basic UI that people of all ages can easily understand. Now, WhatsApp is going to get a major update after years that will change the way people use the messaging app.

WaBetaInfo, famous for tracking upcoming WhatsApp features, has shared a screenshot of the new privacy update coming soon. The name of this feature is Username and PIN. Users will soon be able to replace their phone number with username on WhatsApp, so that they do not share their mobile phone number with everyone.

The app will give you three privacy options. The first one is “Username” and the second option is “Phone number”, so you can choose whether you want to show your mobile number to everyone or keep the username. However, keep in mind that WhatsApp is not resetting your old contacts. So, people who have your number will continue to see your contact details and new users who don’t have your number will only be able to see your username in the profile section.

The third privacy option is “Username with (four-digit) PIN.” Once you enable it, only people who have your PIN will be able to connect with you on WhatsApp. While this feature seems quite useful for privacy-conscious users, it also has a drawback that Meta needs to fix. People who already have your number will be able to send you messages even if you have enabled the PIN option.

“This is an optional feature designed to give you more control over who can reach you, ensuring that only people you choose can reach you through your username,” the report says.

Those who are using WhatsApp’s Android 2.24.18.2 beta version will be able to test this feature right now. According to the source, stable Android WhatsApp users will have to wait for some time to try this feature, as it will be released in a future update.