Today in News History
On July 13, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1551, John Wallop, English soldier and diplomat (born 1490) passed away. In 1863, American Civil War: The New York City draft riots begin three days of rioting which will later be regarded as the worst in United States history. In 1907, George Weller, American author, playwright, and journalist (died 2002) was born. In 1930, The inaugural FIFA World Cup begins in Uruguay. In 1977, New York City: Amidst a period of financial and social turmoil experiences an electrical blackout lasting nearly 24 hours that leads to widespread fires and looting. In 1977, Somalia declares war on Ethiopia, starting the Ogaden War. In 2011, United Nations Security Council Resolution 1999 is adopted, which admits South Sudan to member status of United Nations. In 2020, Zindzi Mandela, South African politician, diplomat, and third daughter of Nelson Mandela (born 1960) passed away. In 2024, President of the United States Donald Trump is injured in an assassination attempt while speaking at an election campaign rally near Butler, Pennsylvania. In 2024, Thomas Matthew Crooks, American student, known for attempting to assassinate former US President Donald Trump (born 2003) passed away. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.
WhatsApp introduces usernames so you can chat without phone numbers

WhatsApp is launching usernames later this year, but you can reserve yours starting this week.
Narrative Intelligence Brief
This article was published by Engadget, a source frequently categorized with a center bias based in United States of America. Our narrative intelligence engine continuously monitors coverage from this outlet to track framing, bias, and rhetorical patterns. Our initial algorithmic scan of this specific piece did not flag high-confidence rhetorical techniques, suggesting a generally straightforward reporting style or neutral framing. By understanding the editorial perspective of Engadget, readers can better contextualize the information presented and compare it across our broader media matrix to find the real narrative.
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Analysis Methodology
This narrative analysis was generated using the CoDataLab Global Intelligence Engine. Our proprietary AI scans thousands of cross-border sources to identify sentiment patterns, framing techniques, and potential media bias. While AI provides the data-driven foundation, our objective is to empower readers with additional context beyond the standard headline.The content displayed above is a structured summary designed for rapid information processing. For the full original report, please visit the source outlet.More Coverage
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How other outlets are covering this story
Compare narratives across 39 related reports from 39 sources. Real Narrative News aggregates the coverage spectrum so you can see who emphasises what — bias tags reflect the outlet, not the story.
Coverage bias distribution
39 sources
Left 26%
Center 23%
Right 38%
Hindustan Times
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp to let users reserve usernames ahead of feature rollout; phone numbers can stay private
WhatsApp has begun allowing users to reserve usernames before the feature launches globally later this year. The update let's users chat without phone numbers.
TechRepublic
· Jun 30, 2026
Meta Adds WhatsApp Usernames: Here’s What You Need to Know
WhatsApp is rolling out usernames so people can chat without sharing phone numbers. Here’s how reservations, username keys, and rules work. The post Meta Adds WhatsApp Usernames: Here’s What You Need to Know appeared first on TechRepublic.
India TV News
· Jul 2, 2026
WhatsApp is bringing username feature, why has India asked it to pause username rollout? Explained
After years of relying on phone numbers as the only way to connect, WhatsApp is now rolling out an update that allows users to create usernames. The update allows users connect using usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. However, the Meta-based company clarified that users would still require a phone number to create an account.
The Namibian
· Jul 1, 2026
WhatsApp to let users chat without numbers
Whatsapp is set to let people chat without having to reveal their phone number – by exchanging unique usernames instead. This will be rolled out globally to the platform’s three billion account holders over the next few months, the platform says. From this week, users will start being able to reserve a name via the [] The post WhatsApp to let users chat without numbers appeared first on The Namibian.
NDTV
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp To Let Users Chat Without Sharing Phone Numbers Soon
The hundreds of millions who use Meta-owned messenger WhatsApp to chat with family, friends or businesses will no longer need to share phone numbers under a coming update, the company said Monday.
Vanguard News
· Jun 29, 2026
Data privacy: WhatsApp to let users chat without sharing phone numbers
By Juliet Umeh Meta’s messaging platform, WhatsApp, has unveiled a new feature that will allow users to initiate conversations without revealing their phone numbers, in a move aimed at enhancing privacy and giving users greater control over their personal information. The platform on Monday, June 29, began rolling out username reservations globally ahead of the [] The post Data privacy: WhatsApp to let users chat without sharing phone numbers appeared first on Vanguard News.
RTÉ News
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp to allow people chat without using phone numbers
WhatsApp users will no longer have to share phone numbers to exchange messages as part of the latest update to the service.
Daily Sabah
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp to let users connect with usernames instead of phone numbers
WhatsApp will soon allow users to create and share unique usernames instead of exposing their phone numbers, the messaging platform announced Monday, introducing a long-awaited pri...
MyJoyOnline
· Jun 29, 2026
Your WhatsApp username is up for grabs – Reserve yours now before someone else takes it
WhatsApp has announced a privacy update that will allow users to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers, as the messaging platform introduces usernames for the first time.
The Meta Newsroom
· Jun 29, 2026
It’s Time to Reserve Your WhatsApp Username
We're launching usernames for WhatsApp, so you can connect with people without giving out your phone number. The post It’s Time to Reserve Your WhatsApp Username appeared first on Meta Newsroom.
Wired
· Jun 29, 2026
Usernames Are Coming to WhatsApp Soon. Here's How to Reserve Yours
Even if you only use WhatsApp sometimes, you might want to snag your username now to stop giving out your phone number.
National Post
· Jun 30, 2026
New privacy roll-out means Whatsapp users won’t have to share their phone numbers
Instead users will exchange messages using their chosen usernames
iPhone in Canada
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp Is Finally Getting Usernames: Here’s How It Works
WhatsApp is rolling out a pretty big privacy change that’s going to let people connect with each other without ever having to hand over their actual phone number. Starting this week, you can lock in a username for yourself ahead of the official rollout later this year, and given that WhatsApp has something like 3 [] The post WhatsApp Is Finally Getting Usernames: Here’s How It Works first appeared on iPhone in Canada.
MakeUseOf
· Jun 24, 2026
Text-message login codes are going away, and the replacement is already on your phone
You already own your next big security boost.
Dateline Nigeria
· Jul 1, 2026
All you need to know about WhatsApp usernames
After 17 years of phone-number-only contact, WhatsApp is rolling out usernames to let users chat without handing out your digits. Usernames are also expected to go live later this year. Here’s what’s happening and how to grab yours. 1. What WhatsApp usernames actually areUsernames are unique handles, like @BenMal or @DDDBank, that you can use The post All you need to know about WhatsApp usernames appeared first on Dateline Nigeria.
Egyptian Gazette
· Jul 1, 2026
WhatsApp will allow users to go by usernames instead of phone numbers, closing a privacy blind spot
LONDON — WhatsApp users will soon get the option of going by usernames instead of phone numbers, the company said Monday, announcing plans to address a privacy blind spot, AP reported. The app said it has started allowing users to reserve unique usernames, which can be used to contact WhatsApp users when the feature is [] The post WhatsApp will allow users to go by usernames instead of phone numbers, closing a privacy blind spot appeared first on Egyptian Gazette.
TheJournal.ie
· Jun 29, 2026
You soon won't need to give someone your phone number to chat on WhatsApp
WhatsApp is rolling out usernames that can be used to contact people on the app.
Brisbane Times
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp invites users to reserve usernames as it makes major change
WhatsApp users will soon get the option of going by usernames instead of phone numbers, the company said, announcing plans to address a privacy blind spot.
The Next Web
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp is finally letting users reserve usernames so they never have to hand over their phone number
WhatsApp is opening username reservations starting today, allowing its more than three billion users to connect with people without sharing their phone number for the first time. The feature, which has been in development for several years, will officially roll out later this year. A phone number is still required to create an account, but [] This story continues at The Next Web
TechCrunch
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp now lets you reserve usernames
WhatsApp username can be between 3 to 35 characters length
Entrepreneur.com
· Jun 30, 2026
WhatsApp Is Finally Giving Its 3 Billion Users a Way to Message Without Sharing Their Phone Number
Starting next week, the Meta-owned messaging app will let all its users reserve a unique username they can share instead of a phone number.
Inc.com
· Jul 2, 2026
What Happens When 3 Billion WhatsApp Users Fight Over Usernames? We’re Starting to Find Out
WhatsApp is rolling out usernames, and there are already signs of fraud. Here’s how to reserve yours.
Mashable
· Jun 25, 2026
Nothing Phone (4b) announcement incoming — but theres a caveat
More information about the Nothing Phone (4b) is coming very soon.
The Hindu BusinessLine
· Jun 30, 2026
WhatsApp’s username launch raises questions about impersonation and cyber fraud
While the username key controls who can contact a person first, it cannot stop someone pretending to be that person
OneIndia
· Jul 3, 2026
How Can Usernames Be Misrepresented? Here's Why the Govt Is Concerned
The Centre's concerns over username-based messaging features stem from the possibility of fraudsters impersonating individuals, businesses and government agencies. Unlike phone numbers, usernames are chosen by users. This means someone can create a username that closely resembles the name of a
ZDNet
· Jun 21, 2026
I always change these 7 phone privacy settings on every new device - here's why
Your phone holds a lot of personal information, from where you go to who you talk to every day. Here's how to limit who can access your data and when.
OpIndia
· Jun 30, 2026
WhatsApp announces usernames: How to reserve yours, hide your number and what concerns are being raised; all you need to know
Reservations are opening gradually before the full 2026 launch. Users can hide phone numbers, claim Meta-linked handles and use an optional username key to block first-time messages from people who do not know the code.
Russia Today
· Jul 2, 2026
India raises security concerns over new WhatsApp feature
India has raised concerns over WhatsApp usernames, while Meta says it has built guardrails against username abuse Read Full Article at RT.com
The Eastern Herald
· Jul 3, 2026
India Targets Encrypted Messengers by Feature: MeitY Sends Notices to Telegram and Signal
India's MeitY sent notices to Telegram and Signal asking them to justify their username features amid fraud concerns. The action, a day after WhatsApp was told to pause its own username rollout, marks India's shift from app bans to feature-by-feature scrutiny of messaging platforms.
Irish Tech News
· Jun 22, 2026
New research to mark the evolution of mobile shows two in three people use their mobiles to stay connected to loved ones
The top three uses of mobile phones are staying in touch with family and friends (two in three or 66 of people aged 40 and over), social media (54), and banking, budgeting, and managing finances (32), according to new research published by Vodafone Ireland. The research, commissioned among 500 mobile phone users aged 40 and []
Digital Trends
· Jun 29, 2026
WhatsApp is finally getting usernames and you should go reserve yours right now
WhatsApp usernames are coming later this year, but reservations are open now, and with three billion users on the platform, the good names are going fast.
Toronto Sun
· Jun 30, 2026
WhatsApp to close privacy loophole by allowing usernames
People can reserve a unique username this week ahead of new feature's launch later this year
China Global Television Network
· Jun 28, 2026
Pakistani and Bahraini FMs hold phone conversation
Pakistani and Bahraini FMs hold phone conversation
Sada Elbalad
· Jul 7, 2026
15 Killed, 9 Missing in China Floods
At least 15 people have been killed and nine remain missing after torrential rain and severe flooding swept across several parts of China, according to state media.
Latestly.com
· Jun 29, 2026
How To Reserve Your WhatsApp Username Before Feature Rolls Out
WhatsApp has begun rolling out username reservations, allowing users to secure a unique username before the feature launches later this year. Users can reserve a username by updating WhatsApp and going to Settings > Account > Username. The privacy-focused feature will let people connect without sharing their phone numbers once it becomes widely available.
Anadolu Agency
· Jun 27, 2026
Top Pakistani, Iranian diplomats reaffirm commitment to regional peace in wake of new strikes
Pakistan's Ishaq Dar speaks with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi over phone after strikes
TASS
· Jun 23, 2026
Contacts between Lavrov, Rubio to continue — senior Russian diplomat
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov added that telephone conversations between the officials can be quickly arranged
The Russian Government
· Jul 1, 2026
Mikhail Mishustin talks over the phone with Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan
Mikhail Mishustin talks over the phone with Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan
Wall Street Journal
· Jul 13, 2026
Fire Tears Through Bangkok Bar, Kills at Least 27
Authorities said more than 70 people were injured in the blaze, with 45 still missing.
Topics:
Related coverage for "WhatsApp introduces usernames so you can chat without phone numbers": Hindustan Times — WhatsApp to let users reserve usernames ahead of feature rollout; phone numbers can stay private. TechRepublic — Meta Adds WhatsApp Usernames: Here’s What You Need to Know. India TV News — WhatsApp is bringing username feature, why has India asked it to pause username rollout? Explained. The Namibian — WhatsApp to let users chat without numbers. NDTV — WhatsApp To Let Users Chat Without Sharing Phone Numbers Soon. Vanguard News — Data privacy: WhatsApp to let users chat without sharing phone numbers. RTÉ News — WhatsApp to allow people chat without using phone numbers. Daily Sabah — WhatsApp to let users connect with usernames instead of phone numbers. MyJoyOnline — Your WhatsApp username is up for grabs – Reserve yours now before someone else takes it. The Meta Newsroom — It’s Time to Reserve Your WhatsApp Username. Wired — Usernames Are Coming to WhatsApp Soon. Here's How to Reserve Yours. National Post — New privacy roll-out means Whatsapp users won’t have to share their phone numbers. iPhone in Canada — WhatsApp Is Finally Getting Usernames: Here’s How It Works. MakeUseOf — Text-message login codes are going away, and the replacement is already on your phone. Dateline Nigeria — All you need to know about WhatsApp usernames. Egyptian Gazette — WhatsApp will allow users to go by usernames instead of phone numbers, closing a privacy blind spot. TheJournal.ie — You soon won't need to give someone your phone number to chat on WhatsApp. Brisbane Times — WhatsApp invites users to reserve usernames as it makes major change. The Next Web — WhatsApp is finally letting users reserve usernames so they never have to hand over their phone number. TechCrunch — WhatsApp now lets you reserve usernames. Entrepreneur.com — WhatsApp Is Finally Giving Its 3 Billion Users a Way to Message Without Sharing Their Phone Number. Inc.com — What Happens When 3 Billion WhatsApp Users Fight Over Usernames? We’re Starting to Find Out. Mashable — Nothing Phone (4b) announcement incoming — but theres a caveat. The Hindu BusinessLine — WhatsApp’s username launch raises questions about impersonation and cyber fraud. OneIndia — How Can Usernames Be Misrepresented? Here's Why the Govt Is Concerned. ZDNet — I always change these 7 phone privacy settings on every new device - here's why. OpIndia — WhatsApp announces usernames: How to reserve yours, hide your number and what concerns are being raised; all you need to know. Russia Today — India raises security concerns over new WhatsApp feature. The Eastern Herald — India Targets Encrypted Messengers by Feature: MeitY Sends Notices to Telegram and Signal. Irish Tech News — New research to mark the evolution of mobile shows two in three people use their mobiles to stay connected to loved ones. Digital Trends — WhatsApp is finally getting usernames and you should go reserve yours right now. Toronto Sun — WhatsApp to close privacy loophole by allowing usernames. China Global Television Network — Pakistani and Bahraini FMs hold phone conversation. Sada Elbalad — 15 Killed, 9 Missing in China Floods. Latestly.com — How To Reserve Your WhatsApp Username Before Feature Rolls Out. Anadolu Agency — Top Pakistani, Iranian diplomats reaffirm commitment to regional peace in wake of new strikes. TASS — Contacts between Lavrov, Rubio to continue — senior Russian diplomat. The Russian Government — Mikhail Mishustin talks over the phone with Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Wall Street Journal — Fire Tears Through Bangkok Bar, Kills at Least 27


