WhatsApp Opens Username Reservations Ahead of Privacy Focused Feature Launch

WhatsApp is giving users a new way to connect without having to share their phone numbers, announcing the introduction of usernames and opening reservations starting this week ahead of the feature’s full rollout later this year.

The new feature is designed to make conversations more private, particularly in situations where sharing a personal phone number may feel unnecessary or uncomfortable. Whether meeting someone new, joining a community group, or participating in a parent chat, users will soon be able to connect through a unique username instead of revealing their mobile number.

With more than three billion people using WhatsApp worldwide, the platform is launching early username reservations to give users the opportunity to secure the name that matters most to them before the feature becomes widely available. Since many names are already shared by multiple users, opening reservations in advance is intended to make the process fairer.

For most users, WhatsApp recommends choosing a unique username that only people they want to connect with will know. Those who need inspiration can also use WhatsApp’s built in username generator to create an available option.

Creators, small businesses, and organisations will also have the option to maintain a consistent identity across platforms by claiming the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook.

The introduction of usernames is part of WhatsApp’s broader effort to strengthen user privacy. Unlike social platforms that allow people to search for accounts, WhatsApp will not include a public username directory or offer username suggestions. Anyone who wants to contact a user for the first time must already know their exact username.

To provide an additional layer of control, WhatsApp is also introducing an optional username key, which users can require others to know before they can send a message.

Once usernames become available, users who choose to enable the feature will no longer have to reveal their phone number when messaging someone or a business for the first time. This gives users greater flexibility in deciding how they share their personal information while still staying connected.

Reserving a username takes only a few seconds on the latest version of WhatsApp by navigating to Settings, Account, then Username.

WhatsApp said the feature will roll out gradually over the coming months, with users receiving an in-app notification when usernames become available in their country.