# WhatsApp Unveils New Functionalities for Private Contact Management Across Devices
Meta, the parent organization of WhatsApp, has revealed a series of thrilling new functionalities designed to simplify the process for users to add and oversee contacts on the well-known messaging service. These enhancements will empower users to privately control their WhatsApp contacts across various devices, inclusive of WhatsApp Web and Windows systems, representing a noteworthy advancement in the app’s user-friendliness and privacy attributes.
## Essential Information
– **Cross-Device Contact Oversight**: Soon, WhatsApp users will have the ability to save and handle contacts not just on their main phone but also through WhatsApp Web and Windows devices.
– **Usernames on the Horizon**: The platform is in the process of developing usernames, which will eliminate the necessity of phone numbers when adding contacts.
– **Encrypted Contact Preservation**: WhatsApp is rolling out a new encrypted storage solution to securely retain and synchronize contacts across devices.
## Broadening Contact Management Beyond Mobile Phones
Previously, WhatsApp users could solely add contacts using their primary Android or iOS device by either manually keying in a phone number or scanning a QR code. This restriction necessitated that users depend on their smartphones to manage their WhatsApp contacts, even if they often accessed WhatsApp on alternative devices such as tablets or computers.
With the latest update, users will gain the capability to add and manage contacts directly through WhatsApp Web and Windows platforms, as well as other gadgets like Android tablets. This modification will simplify contact management across multiple devices without the need to revert to their phone.
This enhancement is particularly advantageous for users wishing to keep specific contacts solely on WhatsApp, without having them enter their phone’s contact list. For instance, individuals balancing both personal and professional contacts on the same device can now compartmentalize their WhatsApp contacts from their phone’s address book, providing increased flexibility and privacy.
## Progressing Toward Usernames
One of the most eagerly awaited functionalities is the future implementation of usernames on WhatsApp, enabling users to add contacts without needing to divulge their phone numbers. This feature is already standard practice in other Meta-owned applications like Instagram and numerous other messaging services. Usernames offer an added layer of privacy, permitting users to preserve their identity without disclosing their phone numbers.
The transition towards usernames is part of WhatsApp’s extensive strategy to bolster user privacy and security. By allowing users to forge a unique identity through usernames, WhatsApp seeks to diminish the dependency on phone numbers, which are frequently targeted by spammers and unwanted connections.
## Encrypted Contact Preservation for Improved Privacy
Additionally, WhatsApp has unveiled a novel encrypted storage system referred to as **Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS)**. This mechanism permits users to retain their WhatsApp contacts directly on the platform, guaranteeing that contact names and information are encrypted and viewable solely to the user. This marks a substantial enhancement in privacy, ensuring that sensitive contact data remains safeguarded from unauthorized access.
Moreover, IPLS facilitates seamless synchronization of contacts across devices. For example, when a user saves a contact on WhatsApp Web, that contact will instantly sync to their phone and other linked devices. This functionality is particularly beneficial for users who frequently switch between devices or misplace their phones, as their WhatsApp contacts can be effortlessly restored.
## Advantages for Users
The new functionalities present several significant advantages for WhatsApp users:
1. **Cross-Device Versatility**: Users can now add and manage contacts from any device, not limited to their primary phone. This is especially beneficial for individuals who utilize WhatsApp across multiple devices, such as desktops, tablets, and laptops.
2. **Improved Privacy**: With the implementation of usernames and encrypted contact storage, users can exert better control over their personal information. This is crucial in mitigating spam and unwanted contacts, as users will no longer need to share their phone numbers to connect with others.
3. **Effortless Contact Synchronization**: The new IPLS system guarantees that contacts are synchronized across all devices, simplifying the process for users to switch between devices without losing their contacts.
4. **Distinction Between Personal and Business Contacts**: Users can now maintain their WhatsApp contacts separately from their phone’s address book, making the management of personal and professional contacts on a single device more straightforward.
## Forward-Thinking
WhatsApp’s initiative to introduce usernames and cross-device contact management represents a pivotal stride in enhancing the platform’s usability and privacy features. By enabling users to oversee their contacts across various devices and rolling out usernames, WhatsApp is establishing itself as a more secure and user-centric messaging service.
These modifications are anticipated to be implemented soon, and users can expect a more adaptable and private method to manage their WhatsApp contacts. As WhatsApp continually evolves, it is evident that the platform is dedicated to improving user privacy and security while making the app more convenient to use across different devices.
### Summary
The launch of new features such as cross-device contact management, usernames, and encrypted
