WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.34.10.70: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new iOS update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 25.34.10.70.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a feature that displays usernames when searching for unknown phone numbers, and it will be available in a future update!

WhatsApp to Introduce Username Search Feature in Future Updates

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.32.10.70 update, we announced that a feature that allows users to search and call others using usernames is under development. This functionality will let users easily locate accounts by typing a username into the search field. Once a username is found, users will be able to initiate a voice or video call directly from the search results screen, offering a faster and more private way to connect without relying on phone numbers. The feature will integrate seamlessly into the Calls tab, enabling users to easily discover others while enhancing their communication experience.

As of now, the feature is still in development and not yet available to users. WhatsApp is continuing to refine and optimize the experience to ensure smooth performance and reliability upon release. In the meantime, WhatsApp is adding several improvements and visual adjustments to prepare the platform for the official rollout next year. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.34.10.70 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that displays usernames when searching for unknown phone numbers!

WhatsApp is Working on Username Lookup Feature for Unknown Phone Numbers

WhatsApp is developing a new feature that will associate usernames with accounts when searching for unknown phone numbers, scheduled for release in a future update. This means that if a user enters an unfamiliar phone number into the search field, and it matches an account, the corresponding username will be displayed. The search result will also include limited profile details, such as the profile picture, depending on the user's privacy settings. It's worth noting that, when searching for an unknown phone number, it will remain visible in the chat info screen for future reference. However, when searching for a username, the associated phone number will stay hidden to protect the user's privacy.

From Phone Numbers to Usernames: How WhatsApp's Search Experience Will Change

At present, when a user searches for an unknown phone number on WhatsApp, the app only displays its phone number and the profile photo, if allowed by privacy settings. Typically, WhatsApp does not immediately show the push name (the name set by users in their profile settings), unless there has been some interaction between the accounts. This often makes it difficult to recognize who the number belongs to, especially when no identifying details are available.

In the future, with the introduction of usernames, this process will change significantly. When searching for an unknown phone number that is linked to an active account, WhatsApp will show the username associated with it (if set by the user). This small change could help users identify contacts more easily and reduce uncertainty when receiving messages or calls from unfamiliar numbers. In some cases, usernames can provide enough context to understand who the account might belong to, even before saving the contact. As a result, this upcoming feature represents a more transparent and intuitive way to connect with others within the WhatsApp ecosystem.

Benefits of Displaying Usernames During Search

Showing usernames during number searches brings several important advantages for users. It adds an extra layer of clarity, helping people quickly recognize who might be behind a phone number before initiating contact, even when they don't have a visible profile photo. This can reduce confusion and improve trust when receiving new messages or calls from unknown sources. Additionally, it saves time by allowing users to identify contacts more easily and decide whether to engage with them. This addition aims to make the search process more informative and intuitive, allowing users to better identify who an unknown number belongs to.

Usernames Expected to Launch in 2026

According to an official update shared by WhatsApp, usernames are expected to roll out next year. WhatsApp has already informed businesses that they must ensure compatibility with usernames and business-scoped IDs before the June 2026 deadline. This transition will allow business services to integrate seamlessly with the new username system once it becomes widely available. As stated in the announcement, usernames for standard WhatsApp users are planned to launch later in 2026, following this compliance phase.

Release Timeline for Username Lookup Feature on WhatsApp for iOS

The feature that displays usernames when searching for unknown phone number is under active development, and it will be available in a future update. WhatsApp is refining the feature to ensure smooth performance and a consistent user experience once it becomes available in the future. In the meantime, WhatsApp continues to test improvements related to username handling and overall account discoverability.

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