WhatsApp is introducing a major privacy-focused feature that will allow users to communicate without revealing their phone numbers.
The messaging platform has begun rolling out username reservations, enabling users to claim a unique username before the feature becomes widely available later this year.
The update is expected to give users greater control over their privacy while making it easier to connect with others securely.
WhatsApp Begins Rolling Out Username Reservations
WhatsApp has started allowing eligible users to reserve a unique username in advance. The company said the phased rollout is necessary because the platform now serves more than three billion users worldwide.
Once the feature is fully available, users will be able to start conversations using a username instead of sharing their mobile number, provided they choose to enable the option.
The feature is optional, meaning users who prefer using their phone numbers can continue to do so.
How to Reserve Your WhatsApp Username
Users can check whether the feature is available on their device by following these steps:
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Account.
- Select Username.
If the feature has reached your account, you can reserve your preferred username.
In case the username you want is already taken, WhatsApp will suggest alternative options through its built-in username generator.
The company will also notify users through the app when the feature becomes available in their country.
Designed to Protect User Privacy
The new username system is one of WhatsApp’s biggest privacy updates in recent years.
Instead of sharing a phone number with someone new, users can choose to share only their username. This helps protect personal contact information while allowing conversations to begin more securely.
WhatsApp has confirmed that it will not introduce a searchable public username directory. People will only be able to contact a user if they already know that person’s exact username.
According to the company, this approach is intended to reduce spam, unwanted messages and unsolicited contact.
Optional Username Key Adds Extra Security
To strengthen privacy further, WhatsApp is introducing an optional username key.
Users can choose to share this verification key separately, giving them greater control over who can initiate conversations using their username.
The company says this additional layer is designed to improve trust and help users verify authentic contacts.
Benefits for Creators and Businesses
The feature is also expected to benefit creators, businesses and organisations.
Eligible users will be able to reserve the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook, making it easier to maintain a consistent identity across Meta’s platforms.
This could simplify brand recognition while helping businesses communicate more efficiently with customers.
Gradual Rollout Underway
WhatsApp has confirmed that the feature is being rolled out in phases and will become available to more users over the coming months.
Users are encouraged to keep their app updated and watch for an in-app notification announcing when username reservations become available in their region.
The introduction of usernames marks another significant step in WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to improve user privacy while offering greater flexibility in how people connect on the platform.
