WhatsApp’s New Contact-Saving Feature: What It Means for You
WhatsApp has just introduced a new feature that will make saving and keeping contacts a lot easier. Now, you can store contacts directly in WhatsApp itself, so even if you lose your phone or use a new device, your contacts will always be accessible through WhatsApp’s cloud storage.
The Change: No More Relying on Your Phone’s Contact List
Up until now, WhatsApp has always relied on your phone’s contact list. When someone new messaged you and you wanted to save their info, it would go directly to your phone’s contact book. But with this new update, you can store contacts directly within WhatsApp, making it accessible on any device where you log in—whether on your phone, WhatsApp Web, or even the desktop app for Windows. If you still prefer having contacts saved in your phone’s contacts as well, WhatsApp gives you that option, too.
Managing Contacts Across Devices
In 2023, WhatsApp made it possible for people to use two accounts on one device, making it easier for users to manage separate personal and business accounts. Now, you can keep contact lists separate as well! If you share a device with others, each user can have their own unique WhatsApp contact list tied to their own number.
Keeping Your Contacts Secure
To ensure your contact information is safe, WhatsApp is introducing a new security system called Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS). This means that when you save a contact, WhatsApp creates a special encrypted key on your device. This key keeps your contacts secure and can only be accessed by your primary device.
On top of that, WhatsApp is partnering with Cloudflare to verify any changes to your contact list’s security settings. This partnership will make sure no one tampers with your saved contacts, adding an extra layer of protection.
What’s Next? Saving Contacts by Username
Another exciting development is on the way: soon, you’ll be able to add contacts using usernames, meaning you won’t need to share your phone number to connect with people. This feature adds a privacy boost similar to what apps like Signal and Telegram already offer. WABetaInfo first hinted that WhatsApp was testing usernames back in May 2023, and Meta (WhatsApp’s parent company) recently confirmed it.
With this update, WhatsApp is making it even easier to manage and secure your contacts—whether on your phone, your computer, or any device you use.
