WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform owned by Meta, is undergoing a significant transformation in how it handles contact management. In a recent announcement, WhatsApp introduced a host of features aimed at enhancing user convenience, privacy, and security. This update is set to simplify contact management across multiple devices, offering more flexibility for users and making the app even more secure.
New Built-in Contact Manager
Historically, WhatsApp has relied on users’ phone address books to manage contacts. This setup presented challenges, especially for those who lost their phone without a backup, shared their device with others, or managed multiple WhatsApp accounts with separate contacts on a single device. To address these issues, WhatsApp has introduced a built-in contact manager that allows users to save and manage contacts directly within the app.
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The first phase of this rollout allows users to save contacts through WhatsApp Web and Windows applications, with plans to extend the feature to other linked devices in the future. This means that contacts can be stored securely in WhatsApp’s cloud, making them accessible even if users switch phones or lose their device.
Introducing Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS)
A key component of WhatsApp’s new contact management system is the introduction of Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS), a privacy-preserving storage technology. IPLS ensures that users’ contact names and numbers are encrypted and can only be accessed by the owner. By utilizing encryption technology, WhatsApp protects sensitive information and provides a seamless recovery process in case of phone loss or upgrade.
In addition to encryption, WhatsApp has partnered with Cloudflare to verify the security of this new system through third-party auditing. This collaboration enhances user confidence in the safety of their data, ensuring that contact information remains private and secure from unauthorized access.
Greater Flexibility with Contact Management Across Devices
One of the most anticipated features is the ability to manage contacts across multiple devices. Previously, adding contacts required users to rely solely on their primary phone, which could be cumbersome when using WhatsApp Web or sharing a device. Now, users can add, edit, and manage contacts from any linked device, including desktops.
WhatsApp has introduced a new toggle labeled “Sync contact to phone,” allowing users to decide whether they want to sync a particular contact to their phone’s address book or keep it stored exclusively in WhatsApp. This feature is particularly useful for individuals managing personal and work contacts separately or those who share devices with family members or colleagues.
Username System on the Horizon
In addition to the new contact management features, WhatsApp has announced plans to roll out a username system in the future. This system will enable users to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers, offering a higher level of privacy. The username feature mirrors functionalities seen in other messaging apps like Telegram and Signal, providing more control over personal information.
While the username system is not yet available, it’s expected to be a game-changer for users concerned about privacy when communicating with new acquaintances or contacts in professional settings.
Enhanced Security Measures
Security remains a top priority for WhatsApp. Along with IPLS, the app implements key transparency and hardware security modules (HSMs) to ensure that contact data is tamper-resistant and protected from unauthorized access. These technologies allow users to verify the authenticity of their contacts and track changes made to identity keys, further reinforcing trust in WhatsApp’s communication platform.
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WhatsApp’s contact management overhaul is set to improve the overall user experience, offering greater flexibility, security, and convenience. For professionals who rely on WhatsApp for business communications, the ability to manage contacts across devices and store them securely in the app will be particularly beneficial.