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WhatsApp has announced a new username feature. Users will no longer need to share their phone numbers to communicate with new people. Find out how you can reserve your preferred WhatsApp username.

Meta’s messaging app, WhatsApp, is now allowing users to set a username. This means you won’t need to share your phone number to chat with someone new. The company announced this on June 29. Currently, the process to reserve (or pre-book) a username has begun, and the feature will be available to all users by the end of this year.

What is this new feature?

Until now, a phone number was required to send or receive messages on WhatsApp. With this new feature, you will also be identifiable by your username. The company states that when you message a person or a business for the first time, they will not see your phone number—provided you have enabled your username. WhatsApp has described this as a privacy feature. The company notes that sharing a phone number directly with a new person can feel like a significant step, given that phone numbers are personal and linked to many aspects of our lives; a username offers a convenient alternative.

Why reserve a username now?

WhatsApp has over three billion users worldwide. With such a vast user base, there is a risk of name conflicts—meaning the name you want might already be taken by someone else. Consequently, the company has opened reservations early so that everyone can book their preferred name in time. Usernames can range from 3 to 35 characters in length. The company has also reserved names associated with celebrities to prevent impersonation or misuse.

How do you reserve a username?

To do this, first update WhatsApp to the latest version on your phone. Then, go to Settings, select Account, and tap on Username. You can choose a username of your choice here. The app will instantly indicate whether the name is available or already taken. The company has stated that this feature will be rolled out gradually across different countries. WhatsApp will notify you within the app once the feature becomes available in your region.

Special Privacy Measures

WhatsApp has clarified that there will be no directory or search list for finding usernames, unlike on Instagram. This means you must know the exact, full username to initiate a conversation with someone for the first time. Additionally, the company is introducing an optional username feature referred to as a “key.” You can choose to restrict messaging access so that only individuals possessing this “key” can message you. You can change your username or disable this feature at any time.

Features for Businesses and Creators

The company has introduced a specific option for those who wish to maintain a consistent online identity, such as creators, small business owners, or organizations. Such users can claim the same username they use on Instagram or Facebook for WhatsApp as well, ensuring a unified identity across platforms. It is worth noting that messaging apps like Telegram, Signal, and Wire have long offered username features; WhatsApp has only now taken this step.