WhatsApp users can now reserve a username ahead of the messaging platform’s global rollout of a feature that will allow people to connect without sharing their phone numbers.
The Meta-owned platform began opening username reservations this week, giving users an opportunity to secure their preferred username before the feature becomes widely available later this year. The rollout will take place gradually across WhatsApp’s more than 3 billion users, with in-app notifications alerting users when the feature is available in their country.
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To reserve a username, users must update to the latest version of WhatsApp and navigate to Settings > Account > Username. The process takes only a few seconds, according to the company.
Usernames are optional and can be changed or removed at any time. WhatsApp said usernames can contain up to 35 characters, although some names associated with high-profile public officials and celebrities will be unavailable to prevent impersonation. If a preferred username is already taken, users can use WhatsApp’s built-in username generator to find an available alternative.
The feature is designed to give users more control over their privacy by allowing them to communicate without revealing their phone numbers to new contacts. Once usernames are enabled, users will be able to start conversations simply by exchanging usernames instead of phone numbers.
WhatsApp said the feature could be particularly useful for situations where users may not want to share their personal number, such as meeting someone at an event, joining a community group or participating in a neighborhood or school chat.
For creators, businesses and organizations, WhatsApp is also allowing eligible accounts to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames, making it easier to maintain a consistent identity across Meta’s platforms.
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The company said usernames will not function like social media profiles. There will be no public directory or searchable list of usernames, and users will need to know a person’s exact username to contact them for the first time. An optional username key will provide an additional layer of privacy by requiring a unique code before someone can send an initial message.
Existing safety features, including the ability to block or report unwanted messages, will remain in place.
WhatsApp said the feature will be introduced in phases over the coming months. Users who reserve a username now will be able to activate it once the rollout reaches their account, allowing future contacts to connect without seeing their phone number.