WhatsApp has begun allowing users to reserve usernames ahead of the wider rollout of its new identity feature, a move designed to let people connect without sharing their phone numbers. The reservation process opens before the feature becomes widely available, giving users an opportunity to secure their preferred usernames in advance.
The upcoming update marks one of WhatsApp’s most significant privacy-focused changes in recent years. Instead of relying solely on phone numbers to initiate conversations, users will be able to communicate through unique usernames, offering an additional layer of privacy while keeping personal contact information hidden from people outside their existing contacts.
According to WhatsApp, username reservations are being introduced early because of the platform’s massive global user base, where many people share similar names. By allowing reservations before the full launch, users have more time to claim a preferred identity that may already be associated with them on other Meta platforms.
To reserve a username, eligible users can update to the latest version of WhatsApp and navigate to the Username option within their account settings. The feature is rolling out gradually, and availability will vary by country over the coming months before the broader launch later this year.
The company said usernames will not replace existing phone numbers for people who already have one another saved as contacts. Instead, the feature is intended to provide greater privacy when interacting with new individuals, communities or businesses.
WhatsApp also said it has built multiple safeguards into the system to reduce the risk of impersonation and misuse. Usernames will not be publicly searchable through a directory, meaning users must know a person’s exact username to start a conversation. In addition, well-known public figures and brands will have protected usernames, while users can also choose to enable an optional security key that adds another layer of protection before someone can message them.
The introduction of usernames reflects WhatsApp’s broader effort to strengthen privacy controls while making it easier for users to manage their digital identity across Meta’s ecosystem. The feature is expected to become available globally in phases as the company continues its rollout throughout the year.
Source: This article is based on an official press release issued by Meta
It’s Time to Reserve Your WhatsApp Username
