WhatsApp usernames are here: Everything you need to know

[caption id="attachment_102752" align="alignnone" width="1920"] WhatsApp has begun rolling out username reservations, paving the way for one of the biggest privacy changes in the app's history. Once the feature launches fully later this year, users will be able to connect using a unique username instead of sharing their phone number with new contacts. The rollout is gradual, with reservations opening first so users can claim their preferred handle before the wider launch. The feature will remain optional, meaning users can continue using phone numbers if they prefer.[/caption][caption id="attachment_102722" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Usernames are designed to improve privacy without making WhatsApp feel like a social network. Handles can be between 3 and 35 characters long and may include letters, numbers, periods and underscores. There will be no public directory or username search, so people must know your exact username to contact you. WhatsApp is also introducing an optional "username key", an extra layer of protection that users can share separately to control who can message them for the first time.[/caption][caption id="attachment_102727" align="alignnone" width="1920"] To reserve a username, update WhatsApp to the latest version and check whether the feature has reached your account. If available, go to Settings > Account > Username and choose a unique handle. If your preferred name has already been taken, WhatsApp will suggest available alternatives. The company is rolling out reservations in phases, so users who do not yet see the option will receive an in-app notification once it becomes available in their region. [/caption][caption id="attachment_102697" align="alignnone" width="1920"] WhatsApp chief Kunal Shah announced the feature with a message encouraging users to act early. In a post on X, he wrote: "Timing is everything. Joined WhatsApp early enough to claim my username before we release this to the world. Time to get yours. A more private way to connect." His post highlights the company's strategy of opening reservations before the global rollout, giving users a better chance of securing the username they want.[/caption][caption id="attachment_94607" align="alignnone" width="2049"] The move addresses one of WhatsApp's long-standing privacy limitations: users previously had to share their phone number to start conversations. With usernames, first-time chats can happen without revealing personal contact details. WhatsApp says this will reduce unwanted contact while making it easier for creators, businesses and organisations to communicate safely. Eligible accounts will also be able to reserve the same usernames they already use on Instagram or Facebook to maintain a consistent identity across Meta's platforms.[/caption][caption id="attachment_86005" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Username reservations are only the first step. The ability to message people using usernames will roll out gradually over the coming months. WhatsApp has also reserved usernames for prominent public figures to reduce impersonation, while businesses and creators may be able to claim usernames that match their Instagram or Facebook identities where eligible. With more than three billion users globally, WhatsApp expects strong demand as the feature expands worldwide.[/caption]