WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.32.10.70: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new iOS update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 25.32.10.70.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a feature that allows users to search and call others using usernames, and it will be available in a future update!
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature: | Search and call using username |
| Status: | Under development |
| Availability info: | This feature is currently in development and not yet available for beta testing. In the meantime, you can read this article for a sneak peek. |
| Previous news: | WWhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.32.15: what's new? WhatsApp is working on a feature that lets channel admins invite their contacts to follow their channels! |
WhatsApp Experiments with New Features to Connect Users
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.24.22 update, we announced that a feature that lets people discover and connect with others by searching for their usernames is under development. This functionality will enable users to look up accounts through a dedicated search interface in the Chats tab, allowing them to find and start conversations with other people without needing their phone numbers. Once a matching username is found, users can open a chat directly, with all messages and calls remaining fully end-to-end encrypted to ensure privacy and security.
WhatsApp also plans to offer an optional username key feature for those who wish to add an extra layer of protection against unwanted contact. The username system will be entirely optional, allowing users to continue relying on their phone numbers if they prefer. Although this feature is still in development, WhatsApp appears to be actively refining the username search process ahead of its official beta release. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.32.10.70 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that allows users to search and call others using usernames!
WhatsApp is Working on a Username-Based Calling Feature
WhatsApp is currently experimenting with a new feature that will allow users to make calls using usernames instead of phone numbers, scheduled for release in a future update. This feature aims to simplify the way people connect on the platform while maintaining their privacy. Once this functionality becomes available, users will notice that it's possible to search for usernames right within the Calls tab. This update will make it easier for users to place voice and video calls without needing to share their phone numbers.
How the Username Search Process Works
When a user enters a username into the search field, WhatsApp will scan its internal systems to check if an account with that exact identifier exists. If a matching account is found, it will appear within the search results list, along with basic profile information based on the user's privacy settings. From this screen, users will be able to select the account to view limited public details, such as a profile picture if it is set to be visible to everyone.
Once the desired account is selected, WhatsApp will display available options to start a voice or video call directly. All calling features available in regular WhatsApp calls are also supported for calls made through usernames. The system has been designed to handle searches quickly and securely, ensuring that no sensitive data is exposed during the lookup, except for information users choose to share publicly. This streamlined search process will allow users to discover, connect, and communicate through usernames in a safe and intuitive way.
Calling Users with an Active Chat or Username Key
It will only be possible to call username contacts if you already have an active chat with them or if their username key is not enabled. The username key is an optional security feature that works like a passcode required for first-time interactions. If a user has activated their username key and you do not have an existing chat with them, you will need to enter the shared key before being able to initiate a call. This key must be provided directly by the user you wish to contact, ensuring that only trusted people can reach them.
Once the correct username key is entered and confirmed, the system will allow the call to start normally. This process adds an important layer of protection against spam and unwanted communication. Users who value privacy will be able to rely on this option to maintain better control over who can contact them. As a result, it combines convenience and security, allowing users to connect freely while minimizing risks.
End-to-End Encryption for Username Calls
All calls initiated through usernames will continue to be protected by WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption protocol. This means that only the participants involved in the call can hear or see the shared communication. WhatsApp will not have access to the contents of these calls, maintaining its strong privacy standards. Users can therefore enjoy the new calling experience with complete confidence in their data protection.
The same encryption technology used for existing WhatsApp calls will apply seamlessly to those made through usernames. This ensures that the introduction of usernames does not compromise the security model used by WhatsApp. Voice and video calls, as well as messages, remain encrypted from sender to receiver, regardless of how the connection was initiated. Users can communicate freely, knowing that their private conversations are fully secured at all times.
Benefits of Calling Users Through Usernames
Calling users through usernames will offer several clear advantages for privacy and convenience. It will eliminate the need to share personal phone numbers, giving users more control over their information. It will also simplify connecting with new people, such as colleagues or online contacts, without compromising privacy. This can be especially useful for businesses, communities, and creators who want to interact safely with a broader audience.
WhatsApp aims to reduce the risk of spam calls, especially when combined with the optional username key. The feature enhances user trust by enabling safe discovery, showing only the information users choose to share while maintaining the same security standards as regular WhatsApp calls. Thanks to these protections, users can interact more confidently, knowing that their privacy is safeguarded at every step. By introducing this feature, WhatsApp aims to make calling and connecting through usernames a seamless part of everyday communication.
Release Timeline for the Call Using Username Feature on iOS
The feature that allows users to search and call others using usernames is currently under development and it is expected to roll out in a future update. Although the exact release date has not yet been announced, WhatsApp continues to refine and test the functionality to ensure a stable experience at launch. WhatsApp is focusing on optimizing performance and security before making it available to all users. Once ready, the feature is expected to roll out gradually to users worldwide in a future update.
Following WABetaInfo on X is the best way to stay informed about new features under development and those released to WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web, and Desktop. We love hearing your feedback, so let us know what you think! You can also explore our dedicated page to discover all our services, or join our Discord Server to chat with others, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest WABetaInfo announcements.