WhatsApp has recently introduced a phone number privacy feature for its Communities feature, which was launched in November. Initially rolled out to WhatsApp beta users, this update adds an additional layer of privacy by hiding users’ phone numbers from other members within the same community. Previously, WhatsApp already concealed the participants list in announcement groups and disabled message reactions to prevent phone number exposure.
With this new privacy feature, when users react to messages within a community, their phone numbers will remain hidden. This allows community members to interact without revealing their personal contact information, particularly since communities often consist of various unknown members. While the feature was initially tested with select users, it is now available to a broader range of users enrolled in the app’s beta program.
To access the phone number privacy feature, WhatsApp beta users need to update their app to either Android version 2.23.14.19 or iOS version 23.14.0.70. After updating, the feature should be visible, and users will receive a prompt regarding the new privacy setting. However, it’s important to note that contacts who have saved your phone number will still be able to view your contact information.
