WhatsApp has announced a significant update in the way it handles contacts, aiming to address some of the issues that users have faced in the past. Until now, WhatsApp contacts have been tied to the phone’s contact list, which can be problematic in cases where users lose their phones or do not have backups of their contacts. The same challenges arise for those who share devices or manage multiple accounts on one phone.
Key Changes to Contact Management:
- Built-in Contact Manager: WhatsApp is introducing a built-in contact manager that allows users to save contacts directly within the app. This means that if you switch phones, your contacts will still be accessible, preventing potential loss.
- Initial Rollout on Web and Windows: The first phase of this update will allow users to save contacts on WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp for Windows. Eventually, this feature will be available on other linked devices, enhancing flexibility for users with multiple devices.
- Encrypted Contact Storage: WhatsApp’s new contact manager uses a privacy-focused technology called Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS). This ensures that names and numbers are encrypted and can only be accessed by the user, providing enhanced security and privacy for contact information.
- Future Username System: In a further evolution, WhatsApp plans to introduce a username system that will allow users to use the app without linking their account to a phone number. This will offer more privacy and flexibility in managing contacts and communication.
This update marks a major step for WhatsApp in improving user convenience and privacy, making it easier to manage contacts across devices and accounts without the risk of losing important information.
