Meta has announced a major update to WhatsApp that changes how contacts are handled within the app. Previously, WhatsApp contacts were directly tied to the phone’s contact list, making it difficult for users who lost their devices or managed multiple accounts. With this new update, WhatsApp introduces an in-app contact manager, providing users with a more reliable and secure way to store and access contacts across devices.
Meta’s new feature allows users to save contacts directly in the app, starting with WhatsApp Web and Windows. This is a welcome change for those who share devices or switch phones frequently. Instead of relying solely on the phone’s contact list, WhatsApp users will now be able to store contacts in a dedicated contact manager, reducing the risk of losing contact information.
What’s New: Built-in Contact Manager for WhatsApp Users
For the first time, WhatsApp users can save their contacts directly within the app, thanks to a new privacy-preserving feature. This means that even if a user loses their phone or switches devices, their contacts will remain safe. WhatsApp’s previous reliance on the phone’s contact list often caused issues for users without a backup.
This new update starts with WhatsApp Web and Windows and is expected to expand to other devices in the future. Users will be able to link devices and maintain their contact lists without needing to rely solely on their phones. This overhaul improves convenience and security for WhatsApp’s global user base.
How Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS) Protects Your Data
At the core of this update is a privacy-preserving storage system called Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS). According to Meta, IPLS encrypts both the names and phone numbers of contacts, ensuring that only the user can access them. This high level of encryption ensures that contact data remains secure across linked devices.
Future Enhancements: Username System to Replace Phone Numbers
Another exciting future feature is WhatsApp’s plan to introduce usernames. This will allow users to create usernames and interact on the platform without linking their account to a phone number. The username system is still in development but could provide an additional layer of privacy for WhatsApp users.
Conclusion: A More Secure and Flexible Way to Manage WhatsApp Contacts
WhatsApp’s new built-in contact manager is a significant step forward for the app, offering improved security and flexibility for users managing multiple accounts or switching devices. The use of encrypted storage through IPLS ensures that contact information is safe, while the upcoming username feature promises even greater privacy for users.
This update is set to make WhatsApp even more user-friendly and secure, and users can look forward to further improvements as Meta continues to innovate.
