WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.1.10.70: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new iOS update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 26.1.10.70.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a feature that brings the username functionality to chats, and it will be available in a future update!

Username in the chat info screen on WhatsApp for iOS

In the post about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.34.10.70 update, we announced that a feature that displays usernames when searching for unknown phone numbers is under development. This functionality will allow users to see the associated username directly in search results when an unknown phone number matches an existing account. It is designed to improve recognition by offering an identifiable label even when profile photos or other details are restricted by privacy settings. The feature will respect user privacy by keeping phone numbers hidden when searches are performed using usernames instead. By providing clearer context before opening a chat, it helps users make more informed decisions about engaging with unfamiliar contacts.

Even though the feature has not yet been finalized and it is still evolving, WhatsApp is actively polishing various elements of the username framework. These ongoing adjustments are intended to make interactions with username based accounts clearer, more secure, and easier to understand for users. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.1.10.70 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that brings the username functionality to chats!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is developing a system that allows conversations to be initiated and managed using usernames rather than phone numbers on iOS, scheduled for release in a future update. When a user opens a chat started through a username, the phone number will not be shown to either participant unless both have saved each other in their contacts. This approach helps limit the exposure of personal information that is typically tied to a phone number. It also creates a more comfortable environment for interacting with people who are not yet known or saved. Such behavior is particularly relevant for short term conversations, support requests, or initial interactions with businesses and services.

Within these chats, the username becomes the primary identifier whenever the account is not stored in the local address book. The username will be displayed prominently at the top of the conversation, replacing the traditional emphasis on the phone number. The same information will also be visible in the chat info screen, positioned below the profile photo to remain easily accessible. This consistent placement ensures users always understand who they are talking to. If the contact is already saved, additional details such as the phone number will appear in a secondary position within the info section.

From a functional standpoint, chats started via usernames on iOS will behave the same as any other WhatsApp conversation. Users will still be able to send messages, make calls, and share media and voice notes without limitations. All communications will continue to be protected by end to end encryption, ensuring that only participants can access the content. The change focuses entirely on how accounts are identified rather than how messages are handled. Security and privacy protections therefore remain unchanged.

Even on WhatsApp for iOS, WhatsApp is introducing a new internal method for associating conversations with accounts to support this transition. Instead of relying on phone numbers as visible identifiers, chats will be linked to an internal reference combined with the chosen username. This setup reduces the amount of sensitive data displayed during everyday interactions. The same system has already been implemented on WhatsApp for Android and Web, as part of the broader effort to standardize username based interactions across all platforms. Usernames become the public facing element, while technical identifiers remain invisible to users. This separation helps simplify interactions without exposing unnecessary information.

The development of usernames on iOS has required substantial changes within WhatsApp's underlying systems. However, information shared with business partners indicates that usernames will be optional and available for both personal accounts and businesses. Businesses, in particular, are expected to adapt their systems this year, which suggests gradual availability for users as well. This also hints that reserving a username could be one of the first steps made accessible.

The feature that brings the username functionality to chats is currently under development, and it's expected for release in a future update. WhatsApp keeps experimenting with how this feature will interact with current chat configurations to provide a seamless experience. After the feature becomes available, unknown conversations will be labeled by username instead of number, helping users recognize contacts more easily and maintain privacy when messaging people who are not saved in their contacts.

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