WhatsApp is introducing a new built-in contact management feature that allows users to save contacts directly within the app. According to the platform, this update will initially be available on WhatsApp Web and Windows, with plans to extend it to other linked devices in the future.
Meta, the platform’s parent company, also introduced a new storage technology called Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS) to handle contacts securely. This ensures names and numbers are encrypted, making them accessible only to the user, thereby enhancing privacy and security.
Until now, WhatsApp has been relying on the phone’s address book for contact management. This update could be particularly useful for users who juggle multiple devices or frequently switch between phones.
Additionally, Meta has revealed plans to introduce a new username system in WhatsApp. This change, set to follow the contact-saving feature, will allow users to connect without needing to share their phone numbers, offering an extra layer of privacy.
(Source: WhatsApp [official blog])
