WhatsApp reportedly tests username search in India despite government halt

WhatsApp is reportedly testing @username search in India, letting users find accounts outside their contacts and start chats without a phone number if they know the account's username key. India's IT ministry asked WhatsApp in July 2026 to pause the rollout over fraud and impersonation risks until consultations are completed.

• Username search surfaces accounts outside contacts with a chat button
• Messaging requires the account's private username key
• India's IT ministry ordered a halt in July 2026
• WhatsApp has not confirmed an India launch date