Signal, the end-to-end encrypted messaging app renowned for its strong security, is approaching the release of a highly anticipated feature—usernames. This new capability will allow users to connect with others using only a username, eliminating the need to disclose their linked phone number, a significant shift from the current account setup.

While other secure messaging platforms like Telegram and Wire have offered this feature for almost a decade, Signal, despite its reputation for robust security, has taken its time to implement this privacy-conscious option.

The Signal team has been internally developing this feature for some time and is now entering the final testing phase before a public launch. Users are invited to participate in testing the feature in a Staging environment by installing a separate test app.

In a message on the Signal Community blog, the team encouraged users to explore the new functionality available in these builds, test creating usernames, sharing username links, modifying sharing settings for phone numbers, and inviting people to groups using both usernames and phone numbers.

During an event in Bangalore last month, Signal President Meredith Whittaker announced that the username feature is expected to launch in early 2024.

Signal is seeking user feedback during the testing phase, asking participants to report crashes and share debug logs. The Staging app is designed to proactively crash if any issues arise during the fundamental changes to how accounts are identified in the Signal ecosystem.

The username feature is a major architectural overhaul, and Signal plans to update the builds daily, a departure from its usual weekly cadence for public betas. This addition is expected to enhance privacy and security by allowing users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers, a valuable asset in today’s digital landscape where personal data is often targeted by hackers and identity thieves.