WhatsApp begins letting users reserve unique usernames to chat without sharing phone numbers, rolling out globally over coming months.
9:42 PM
WhatsApp has begun allowing users to reserve unique usernames as part of a global rollout that will let people message without disclosing their phone numbers, the Meta-owned platform announced Monday.
Reservations opened this week through the app's Settings menu under Account, where users can create a new username or import an existing handle from Instagram or Facebook. WhatsApp provides a username generator for those seeking suggestions, though users may also choose any name they prefer.
The feature will roll out gradually to WhatsApp's over three billion account holders throughout the remainder of 2026. Once fully activated, users will be able to connect after exchanging usernames only, with no requirement to share phone numbers. The platform said people would be able to remove or change their usernames at any time.
Usernames will be limited to 35 characters. WhatsApp said there will be few restrictions on available names, with the exception of some high-profile officials and celebrities whose names will not be made available to other users.
According to the platform, there will be no public directory and no profile suggestions. To find another user, a person must know their exact username. Users will also have the option to set an additional security key to receive messages, available only if they choose to enable it.
WhatsApp said the early reservation period was necessary because of name overlap among its large user base. "With over three billion people on WhatsApp a lot of names overlap, which is why we're opening reservations early so everyone has the opportunity to select the username that matters to them," the platform stated.
The company described the feature as designed to enhance privacy by allowing users to keep their phone numbers concealed from people who are not already in their contacts. Users will receive a notification in the app when the username feature becomes available in their country.
Creators, businesses, and organizations seeking to use the same name across multiple platforms can reserve their current Instagram or Facebook username by linking their WhatsApp account to Meta.
Similar username features are already available on rival messaging platforms including Telegram and Signal.
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