WhatsApp has introduced one of its biggest updates for iPad users, allowing the tablet to function as a primary device rather than relying entirely on an iPhone. The change marks another step in Meta's effort to make WhatsApp work more smoothly across multiple devices. Until now, many users treated the iPad version as an extension of their phone. With the latest update, users can set up and use WhatsApp directly on an iPad, making it much more practical for work, study and everyday communication.<h2>What has changed?</h2>The biggest improvement is that the iPad can now operate independently as a primary device. This means users can access their chats, send messages, make voice and video calls, and receive notifications directly on the tablet. Conversations remain synchronised across linked devices through WhatsApp's multi-device technology while maintaining end-to-end encryption. For users who spend long hours on an iPad, the update removes the need to constantly switch back to a smartphone for messaging.&nbsp;The update reflects changing user habits. Many people now use tablets as their main computing device for work, online classes, entertainment and travel. Having WhatsApp work more independently makes multitasking easier. Users can reply to messages while editing documents, attending video meetings or browsing the web without reaching for another device. It also makes the iPad a more practical option for people who prefer carrying a tablet instead of a laptop or smartphone throughout the day.<h2>Part of Meta's wider multi-device strategy</h2>Meta has spent the past few years expanding WhatsApp's multi-device capabilities.The platform already supports using the same account across multiple phones, computers and web browsers. Adding stronger standalone support for iPad continues that strategy and brings feature parity across Apple's devices. The update also comes as messaging platforms increasingly compete by offering seamless experiences across phones, tablets, desktops and wearable devices.What users should knowThe feature is rolling out gradually through the latest version of WhatsApp for iPad. Once available, users can set up the app directly on the tablet and continue accessing encrypted chats across all their connected devices. For many iPad owners, it removes one of the biggest limitations of using WhatsApp on Apple's larger screen and makes the app a much more complete communication tool.

WhatsApp has updated its iPad app, allowing the tablet to work as a primary device instead of relying on an iPhone. The feature offers a more independent messaging experience while keeping chats synchronised across devices using end-to-end encryption.

WhatsApp has introduced one of its biggest updates for iPad users, allowing the tablet to function as a primary device rather than relying entirely on an iPhone. The change marks another step in Meta's effort to make WhatsApp work more smoothly across multiple devices. Until now, many users treated the iPad version as an extension of their phone. With the latest update, users can set up and use WhatsApp directly on an iPad, making it much more practical for work, study and everyday communication. What has changed? The biggest improvement is that the iPad can now operate independently as a primary device. This means users can access their chats, send messages, make voice and video calls, and receive notifications directly on the tablet. Conversations remain synchronised across linked devices through WhatsApp's multi-device technology while maintaining end-to-end encryption. For users who spend long hours on an iPad, the update removes the need to constantly switch back to a smartphone for messaging. The update reflects changing user habits. Many people now use tablets as their main computing device for work, online classes, entertainment and travel. Having WhatsApp work more independently makes multitasking easier. Users can reply to messages while editing documents, attending video meetings or browsing the web without reaching for another device. It also makes the iPad a more practical option for people who prefer carrying a tablet instead of a laptop or smartphone throughout the day. Part of Meta's wider multi-device strategy Meta has spent the past few years expanding WhatsApp's multi-device capabilities. The platform already supports using the same account across multiple phones, computers and web browsers. Adding stronger standalone support for iPad continues that strategy and brings feature parity across Apple's devices. The update also comes as messaging platforms increasingly compete by offering seamless experiences across phones, tablets, desktops and wearable devices. What users should know The feature is rolling out gradually through the latest version of WhatsApp for iPad. Once available, users can set up the app directly on the tablet and continue accessing encrypted chats across all their connected devices. For many iPad owners, it removes one of the biggest limitations of using WhatsApp on Apple's larger screen and makes the app a much more complete communication tool.

WhatsApp has updated its iPad app, allowing the tablet to work as a primary device instead of relying on an iPhone. The feature offers a more independent messaging experience while keeping chats synchronised across devices using end-to-end encryption.

WhatsApp on iPad gets a major upgrade: You can now use it as a primary device

A day after Indian government asked Meta to hold the rollout of their new username feature in India, WhatsApp has said that the names of public figures, government entities, celebrities and verified Meta accounts will be kept reserved. A spokesperson for the company quoted in a report by News 18 and Moneycontrol claimed that the feature has only been announced and is not yet to be available to users. "We’ve announced the option for people to reserve their preferred username on WhatsApp. The ability to use a username is not yet live and will roll out slowly later this year," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-issues-notice-to-meta-over-new-whatsapp-feature-flags-fraud-concerns-1782959223298/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-issues-notice-to-meta-over-new-whatsapp-feature-flags-fraud-concerns-1782959223298/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing concerns over misuse, the company said it has already built safeguards into the feature. “To protect against impersonation, we’ve held the highest-profile names — think public figures, government entities, celebrities, verified Meta accounts — so they can only ever be claimed by their legitimate owners and lookalike derivatives of known names are held as well," the spokesperson added. However, WION was able to reserve usernames of personalities on WhatsApp despite WhatsApp's claims. WION attempted reserving the username for verifying the claims made by WhatsApp and immediately cancelled the process and did not reserve any username that would amount to impersonation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-directs-meta-to-halt-whatsapp-usernames-feature-until-consultations-are-complete-1782918599679">India directs Meta to halt WhatsApp usernames feature until consultations are complete</a>&nbsp;<h2>What WION factcheck found?</h2><ol><li>Whatsapps claim that it has not yet been rolled out was false becauseit is available&nbsp;</li><li>Users can also access the feature to reserve usernames&nbsp;</li><li>The feature has not been halted despite Indian government's notice&nbsp;</li><li>Users can reserve usernames similar to personalities increasing risk of fraud</li></ol><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260702/image-1782963554192.png"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260702/image-1782963505950.png"></figure>2. While username such as “PMOIndia” and "meaindia" were not available, changing a letter or adding numbers showed that it is available&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260702/image-1782963828715.png"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260702/image-1782963856931.png"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260702/image-1782963876349.png"></figure><h2>What is Whatsapp's new feature and what Indian government said?</h2>The Indian government has issued a formal notice to Meta, directing the technology giant to explain its new WhatsApp “usernames” feature and suspend any rollout in the country until further consultations are complete. &nbsp;This came after privacy experts and cybersecurity specialists raised concerns that similar-looking usernames could still be exploited for fraud. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has given Meta three days to provide a detailed report on how the privacy-focused update will work, amid mounting concerns over impersonation, online fraud and challenges to traceability.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-introduces-usernames-here-s-how-you-can-reserve-yours-and-why-the-app-is-making-the-change-1782791192842">WhatsApp introduces usernames: Don't MISS OUT on your unique username - Here's how you can reserve it</a>&nbsp;Meta has described the change as a major step forward, with safeguards including reserved names for public figures, celebrities and government entities, limits on contact attempts and no public directory of usernames. WhatsApp head Kunal Shah, an Indian fintech entrepreneur recently appointed to the role, promoted the username feature as “a more private way to connect”.

Meta says it will reserve the names of public figures, celebrities, government entities and verified accounts under WhatsApp's upcoming usernames feature to prevent impersonation. The move comes after India issued a notice seeking details on the feature and raising concerns over fraud

A day after Indian government asked Meta to hold the rollout of their new username feature in India, WhatsApp has said that the names of public figures, government entities, celebrities and verified Meta accounts will be kept reserved. A spokesperson for the company quoted in a report by News 18 and Moneycontrol claimed that the feature has only been announced and is not yet to be available to users. "We’ve announced the option for people to reserve their preferred username on WhatsApp. The ability to use a username is not yet live and will roll out slowly later this year," the spokesperson said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-issues-notice-to-meta-over-new-whatsapp-feature-flags-fraud-concerns-1782959223298/embed Addressing concerns over misuse, the company said it has already built safeguards into the feature. “To protect against impersonation, we’ve held the highest-profile names — think public figures, government entities, celebrities, verified Meta accounts — so they can only ever be claimed by their legitimate owners and lookalike derivatives of known names are held as well," the spokesperson added. However, WION was able to reserve usernames of personalities on WhatsApp despite WhatsApp's claims. WION attempted reserving the username for verifying the claims made by WhatsApp and immediately cancelled the process and did not reserve any username that would amount to impersonation. Also Read: India directs Meta to halt WhatsApp usernames feature until consultations are complete What WION factcheck found? Whatsapps claim that it has not yet been rolled out was false becauseit is available Users can also access the feature to reserve usernames The feature has not been halted despite Indian government's notice Users can reserve usernames similar to personalities increasing risk of fraud 2. While username such as “PMOIndia” and "meaindia" were not available, changing a letter or adding numbers showed that it is available What is Whatsapp's new feature and what Indian government said? The Indian government has issued a formal notice to Meta, directing the technology giant to explain its new WhatsApp “usernames” feature and suspend any rollout in the country until further consultations are complete. This came after privacy experts and cybersecurity specialists raised concerns that similar-looking usernames could still be exploited for fraud. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has given Meta three days to provide a detailed report on how the privacy-focused update will work, amid mounting concerns over impersonation, online fraud and challenges to traceability. Also Read: WhatsApp introduces usernames: Don't MISS OUT on your unique username - Here's how you can reserve it Meta has described the change as a major step forward, with safeguards including reserved names for public figures, celebrities and government entities, limits on contact attempts and no public directory of usernames. WhatsApp head Kunal Shah, an Indian fintech entrepreneur recently appointed to the role, promoted the username feature as “a more private way to connect”.

Meta says it will reserve the names of public figures, celebrities, government entities and verified accounts under WhatsApp's upcoming usernames feature to prevent impersonation. The move comes after India issued a notice seeking details on the feature and raising concerns over fraud

'Not yet live': Whatsapp responds after India halts its username feature - WION factchecks claims

WhatsApp is finally getting rid of one of its most criticised limitations. For years, users had to share their phone numbers to connect with new contacts on the platform. That is about to change. Now, WhatsApp has begun rolling out usernames globally, allowing people to chat with others without revealing their personal mobile numbers.The feature, which started rolling out from June 29, will eventually reach WhatsApp's more than three billion users worldwide over the coming months. And if you have a username in mind, you may want to act quickly.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/how-to-spot-a-digital-arrest-scam-before-you-lose-money-red-flags-you-cannot-miss-wion-decodes-1782465781683">How to spot a digital arrest scam before you lose money, 5 red flags you cannot miss | WION Decodes</a><h2>'Timing is everything'</h2>In an announcement on X, WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah revealed that he had already secured his preferred username ahead of the public rollout."Timing is everything. Joined WhatsApp early enough to claim my username before we release this to the world. Time to get yours," Shah wrote.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Timing is everything. Joined WhatsApp early enough to claim my username before we release this to the world. Time to get yours. A more private way to connect. Coming soon to your WhatsApp. <a href="https://t.co/ZIq3S5n7gc">https://t.co/ZIq3S5n7gc</a>&mdash; Kunal Shah (@kunalb11) <a href="https://x.com/kunalb11/status/2071624878713971176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>How to reserve your WhatsApp username</h2>Users who have received access to the feature can reserve a username in a few simple steps:<ol><li>Update WhatsApp to the latest version</li><li>Open Settings</li><li>Tap Account</li><li>Select Username</li><li>Choose an available username</li><li>Confirm your selection</li></ol>WhatsApp says users will receive a notification when the feature becomes available in their region.

<h2>Why does WhatsApp suddenly need usernames?</h2>According to WhatsApp, the answer is simple: privacy. The company says there are many situations where users want to stay in touch without handing over a personal phone number.Think about someone you met at a conference. A parent from your child's sports team. A neighbour. A classmate. Or even a seller in an online marketplace group. Until now, exchanging numbers was often the only way to continue a conversation with acquaintances on WhatsApp.Now, the company says usernames will solve this problem. Once the feature is fully activated, users will be able to connect by sharing a unique username instead of their phone number. Unlike social media platforms such as Instagram or X, however, WhatsApp insists this is not designed to become a public identity system.There will be no searchable username directory. Users will need to know your exact username before they can message you for the first time.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/digital-arrest-scam-doctors-engineers-ceos-why-smart-indians-keep-getting-trapped-by-the-fraud-wion-decodes-1782460955929">Digital arrest scam: Doctors, engineers, CEOs - Why smart Indians keep getting trapped by the fraud | WION Decodes</a><h2>How will WhatsApp usernames work?</h2>WhatsApp says usernames can be up to 35 characters long and users will be able to change, update or remove them whenever they want. Importantly, creating a username is optional. Existing users can continue using the platform exactly as they do today.High-profile usernames to be protectedThe company has also put restrictions in place to reduce impersonation. That means usernames associated with high-profile public figures, government officials, and celebrities will be protected. So users are unlikely to find names such as Donald Trump or other well-known personalities available for registration.Meanwhile, businesses, creators and organisations may be able to claim usernames that match their existing Instagram or Facebook accounts where possible.<h2>What is the Username Key?</h2>WhatsApp is also introducing an additional security feature called the Username Key. The optional tool allows users to create a custom key that first-time contacts must enter before sending a message through a username.The company says the feature gives users greater control over who can reach them and can be changed at any time.The move comes as WhatsApp tries to position usernames as a privacy-focused communication tool rather than another social media feature.Currently, WhatsApp protects messages with end-to-end encryption, meaning the company cannot read the contents of private chats. However, like many digital platforms, it still collects certain metadata, including information about who users contact and when.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WhatsApp has begun rolling out usernames globally, allowing users to chat without sharing their personal phone numbers. Here's how you can claim your unique username.

WhatsApp is finally getting rid of one of its most criticised limitations. For years, users had to share their phone numbers to connect with new contacts on the platform. That is about to change. Now, WhatsApp has begun rolling out usernames globally, allowing people to chat with others without revealing their personal mobile numbers. The feature, which started rolling out from June 29, will eventually reach WhatsApp's more than three billion users worldwide over the coming months. And if you have a username in mind, you may want to act quickly. Also read | How to spot a digital arrest scam before you lose money, 5 red flags you cannot miss | WION Decodes 'Timing is everything' In an announcement on X, WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah revealed that he had already secured his preferred username ahead of the public rollout. "Timing is everything. Joined WhatsApp early enough to claim my username before we release this to the world. Time to get yours," Shah wrote.

WhatsApp has begun rolling out usernames globally, allowing users to chat without sharing their personal phone numbers. Here's how you can claim your unique username.

WhatsApp introduces usernames: Don't MISS OUT on your unique username - Here's how you can reserve it

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature for iOS beta which will allow users to set an expiration date for groups. The new option will be available within group info.

Expiring groups: What is this new Whatsapp feature?

In the latest news coming in, a WhatsApp Spokesperson told WION "The claim written on Cybernews is based on unsubstantiated screenshots. There is no evidence of a ‘data leak’ from WhatsApp." Watch this video to know more.

WhatsApp denies ‘data leak', says reports are based on 'unsubstantiated' screenshots

Privacy is a fundamental right in India, but Whatsapp's new privacy policy could infringe on this right. On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma Upadhyay asks why India doesn’t have laws to protect the personal data of its citizens.

Gravitas Plus: WhatsApp's Privacy policy explained

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WhatsApp on iPad gets a major upgrade: You can now use it as a primary device

'Not yet live': Whatsapp responds after India halts its username feature

WhatsApp usernames: Here's how to reserve yours before someone else GRABS IT

Expiring groups: What is this new Whatsapp feature?

WhatsApp denies ‘data leak', says reports are based on 'unsubstantiated' screenshots

Gravitas Plus: WhatsApp's Privacy policy explained