Security News > 2023 > November > Signal tests usernames that keep your phone number private
Signal is now testing public usernames that allow users to conceal the phone numbers linked to their accounts while communicating with others.
"Think of The Staging Environment as a parallel Signal universe: you'll need to install and run a new build, and register for a new account with a phone number," O'Leary said.
After registering for a staging account and launching the app, users can access the new features within these builds by navigating to Settings > Profile and Settings > Privacy > Phone Number.
Signal encourages users to test various functionalities, including creating usernames, sharing username links, adjusting sharing settings for phone numbers, and inviting individuals to groups using both usernames and phone numbers.
Signal users can start testing the new username features by installing pre-beta build versions that will likely be updated daily.
Signal President Meredith Whittaker first mentioned one year ago that Signal usernames are under development, allowing users to use the encrypted messaging service without disclosing their phone numbers.