In its most recent round of beta updates, WhatsApp adds username reservation, marking a significant shift in the way users connect, communicate, and safeguard their privacy. In addition, WhatsApp is testing a number of new features on both the iOS and Android platforms, including chat limitations, reaction stickers, and an updated iPad sidebar. The business is testing a number of UI and privacy-focused enhancements in the most recent beta versions, all of which are intended to make the app more adaptable, user-friendly, and safe for its enormous worldwide user base.
Users spotted a revised sidebar in the WhatsApp beta for iOS version 25.29.10.72, which was influenced by the Mac layout. The old bottom tab bar has been replaced with this new style, which better arranges calls, chats, and settings for larger tablet screens. In addition to offering a neater, more polished design, the sidebar makes room for upcoming tools and shortcuts as WhatsApp keeps adding support for tablets. WhatsApp’s continuous efforts to optimize usability on larger screens and provide a consistent experience across all devices are reflected in the design change.
WhatsApp’s long-awaited feature of username reservation, which offers users greater privacy and control, is at the heart of the new features. Before the official deployment starts, users can register and reserve unique usernames with this functionality, which is currently being tested on both iOS and Android betas. By preventing early users from claiming well-known names before others, this reserve period guarantees equity.
Reports state that usernames must adhere to certain rules: they must contain only lowercase letters, digits, underscores, or periods, and they must be between three and thirty characters long. They cannot start with “www” or end with a period. When usernames are formally introduced, users will be able to converse without disclosing their phone numbers, significantly lowering unwanted exposure and enhancing privacy.
It has also been stated that WhatsApp is developing an optional PIN system that would enable users to reject unsolicited messages from users who are just aware of their username. This feature, when paired with other soon-to-be privacy measures, is a big step toward number-free communication, which users have been asking for years.
The platform is also testing reaction stickers for status updates in Android beta version 2.25.30.2. This new feature lets users add emoji-based stickers directly to their photos or videos when posting a status update, similar to what’s seen on Instagram or Snapchat. Each reaction is end-to-end encrypted and visible only to the status author, ensuring privacy while keeping interactions light and expressive. Notifications will also indicate who reacted and which emoji was used, creating a more interactive experience without compromising security.
To further protect users from spam and unsolicited messages, WhatsApp is developing a new chat limit system discovered in Android beta version 2.25.31.5. By limiting the number of fresh messages a user can send to recipients who haven’t responded, this upgrade will help reduce bulk messaging and undesired outreach. Normal chats won’t be impacted, but users will be able to track their consumption with the help of a monthly indicator that will show up in settings. WhatsApp Business, which will continue to provide more communication alternatives, will be promoted to businesses or organizations that require more message capacity.
Although WhatsApp has not announced exact release dates for these updates, they appear close to official rollout. The WhatsApp username reservation feature, in particular, stands out as a major advancement for privacy, personalization, and digital safety. Along with reaction stickers, chat limits, and the new iPad sidebar, these updates highlight WhatsApp’s continued mission to make communication simpler, smarter, and more secure across all devices.
