WhatsApp is introducing usernames, allowing users to connect without sharing their phone numbers, marking one of the platform’s biggest privacy-focused updates in recent years.
Until now, starting a conversation on WhatsApp typically required exchanging phone numbers. While convenient, it also meant sharing personal contact information with anyone you wanted to communicate with. The new username feature aims to change that.
WhatsApp has announced that users will be able to create unique usernames and use them to connect with others instead of revealing their mobile numbers. The company has begun rolling out username reservations globally from June 29, ahead of a broader launch later this year. Users will receive an in-app notification when the feature becomes available in their region.
WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah revealed on X that he had already secured his preferred username before the public rollout and encouraged users to reserve theirs before they are taken.
Why Is WhatsApp Introducing Usernames?
According to WhatsApp, the primary goal is to improve privacy.
The company says there are many situations—such as networking events, community groups, neighbourhood interactions, or school activities—where people may want to stay in touch without sharing their personal phone numbers.
With usernames, users will be able to provide a unique identifier instead of their phone number. WhatsApp emphasises that this is not intended to function like a social media handle. There will be no public directory of usernames, and the platform will not recommend usernames to other users. To start a conversation, someone must already know your exact username.
What Is the Username Key?
To provide additional security, WhatsApp is also introducing an optional feature called the Username Key.
This feature allows users to create a unique code that first-time contacts must enter before they can send a message using a username. The key can be changed whenever needed, giving users greater control over who can contact them.
How to Reserve a WhatsApp Username
To reserve a username:
Update WhatsApp to the latest version.
Open Settings.
Tap Account.
Select Username.
Choose an available username and confirm it.
Usernames can be up to 35 characters long and must follow WhatsApp’s naming guidelines. Users will be able to edit, change, or remove their usernames whenever they wish.
The company also says that usernames associated with prominent public figures and celebrities will be protected to reduce impersonation. Businesses, creators, and organisations may be able to claim usernames that match their existing Instagram or Facebook identities where possible.
What Stays the Same?
Existing chats and contacts will remain unaffected. Current contacts can continue messaging users as usual, and features such as end-to-end encryption, blocking, and reporting will continue to operate in the same way.
Rollout Timeline
The feature will be introduced gradually over the coming months, meaning not all users will receive access immediately. WhatsApp says it will notify users through the app when username reservations become available in their region, with the full feature expected to roll out later this year.
