WhatsApp is preparing to launch one of its most significant privacy updates yet, allowing users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers through a new username feature.
Ahead of the rollout, the Meta-owned messaging platform has begun allowing users to reserve usernames, giving them the opportunity to secure their preferred identity before the feature becomes widely available later this year.
Why is WhatsApp introducing usernames?
According to WhatsApp, the move is aimed at giving users greater control over their privacy, particularly when interacting with people they do not know well.
The company said exchanging phone numbers can often feel intrusive because they are linked to many aspects of a person’s life.
“Sometimes you just want to chat without handing over your digits,” WhatsApp said in a blog post.
The feature is also intended to make joining group conversations more comfortable, especially community, school, workplace and neighbourhood groups where members may be reluctant to expose their personal phone numbers.
How will WhatsApp usernames work?
Instead of sharing a phone number, users will be able to provide a unique username that others can use to start a conversation.
Once the feature is enabled, people or businesses contacting a user for the first time will see the username instead of the phone number.
WhatsApp said there will be no searchable directory of usernames and no suggestions for people to browse. To initiate a conversation, someone must already know the exact username.
What is the username key?
To further protect users from unwanted messages, WhatsApp is introducing an optional “username key.”
The company said the additional security feature will require people to know both the username and the user’s chosen key before they can send a first message, giving users more control over who can contact them.
What about businesses and creators?
WhatsApp says creators, small businesses and organisations will be able to claim the same usernames they already use on Instagram or Facebook, helping them maintain a consistent brand identity across Meta’s platforms.
Why are reservations opening now?
With more than three billion users worldwide, WhatsApp expects many people to compete for similar usernames.
To address this, the company has opened reservations ahead of the official launch, allowing users to secure the names they want before the feature becomes available globally.
WhatsApp said it also offers a username generator to help users create a unique name if their preferred option has already been taken.
How can users reserve a username?
Users can reserve a username by updating to the latest version of WhatsApp and navigating to Settings > Account > Username.
The feature will be rolled out gradually over the coming months, with WhatsApp notifying users in the app once usernames become available in their country.
