WhatsApp is preparing an update that will let users exchange messages without having to share their phone numbers. Both RTE and NDTV report that Meta’s messaging service is changing how people are identified for communication, so that phone numbers are no longer required for chatting. The outlets say the change is part of a coming update announced by WhatsApp. The reports describe the change as applying to WhatsApp users broadly, including people messaging family, friends, and businesses through the app. While the sources agree on the phone-number requirement being removed, they do not provide additional details on timing, how accounts will be linked for messaging, or which regions and account types will be affected first. Overall, the update is presented as a privacy- and convenience-focused adjustment to WhatsApp’s messaging process, removing the need to share phone numbers when initiating or continuing chats. The announcement is described as occurring on Monday by NDTV, while RTE states the change will be introduced as part of WhatsApp’s latest update.