WhatsApp is preparing to roll out one of its biggest privacy updates yet by introducing usernames, allowing users to connect without sharing their mobile numbers. The new feature, announced by WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah, is expected to change the way people start conversations on the platform while giving users greater control over their personal information.
The company has also encouraged users to reserve their preferred usernames before the feature becomes widely available later this year.
WhatsApp Usernames Aim To Strengthen Privacy
For years, exchanging phone numbers has been the only way to start a conversation on WhatsApp. While the system has worked well, it has also meant that users had to reveal their personal contact details whenever they wanted to connect with someone new.
With the introduction of usernames, that will soon change.
Instead of sharing a phone number, users will be able to communicate by using a unique username. According to WhatsApp, the update is designed to offer a more privacy-focused messaging experience while keeping conversations secure.
The company says the feature will be especially useful in situations where people want to stay connected without sharing their personal number, such as networking events, classrooms, neighbourhood groups or community activities.
CEO Kunal Shah Encourages Early Reservations
Announcing the feature, WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah revealed that he had already secured his own username before the public rollout.
In a post on X, Shah said that timing was important and encouraged users to reserve their preferred usernames before they are claimed by someone else.
Username reservations officially began rolling out globally on June 29, although availability will differ by region. Users will receive an in-app notification once the feature becomes available on their devices.
The company plans to expand the rollout gradually over the coming months before making usernames available to all users later this year.
New Username Key Adds Extra Security
Along with usernames, WhatsApp is introducing another privacy feature called the Username Key.
This optional security layer allows users to create a unique key that first-time contacts must enter before sending a message through a username.
According to WhatsApp, the feature provides additional protection against unwanted messages and gives users greater control over who can contact them.
The Username Key can also be updated or changed whenever users wish.
How To Reserve WhatsApp Username
Users who receive access to the feature can reserve a username by following a few simple steps:
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Account.
- Select Username.
- Choose an available username and confirm it.
WhatsApp says usernames can contain up to 35 characters and must follow specific naming guidelines.
Users will also be free to edit, change or remove their usernames whenever they want.
Businesses And Creators Will Also Benefit
The new feature is not limited to personal users.
WhatsApp has confirmed that businesses, creators and organisations will be able to claim usernames matching their existing Instagram or Facebook accounts wherever possible. This is expected to help brands maintain a consistent identity across Meta’s platforms.
To reduce the risk of impersonation, usernames linked to well-known public figures, celebrities and major organisations will be reserved by the company.
Unlike social media platforms, however, WhatsApp usernames will not appear in a public directory.
The platform will not recommend usernames or allow users to search for people randomly. Instead, someone must already know a person’s exact username before initiating a conversation.
Existing Chats Will Continue Normally
WhatsApp has clarified that the update will not affect existing conversations or contacts.
People who already have a user’s phone number will continue chatting as before, while core features such as end-to-end encryption, blocking and reporting will remain unchanged.
The introduction of usernames simply adds another way to connect, offering users the choice of protecting their phone numbers when interacting with new contacts.
With privacy becoming an increasingly important concern for users worldwide, the feature represents one of WhatsApp’s most significant updates in recent years.
As the rollout expands over the coming months, millions of users will soon have the option to communicate through usernames instead of mobile numbers, making conversations more private while maintaining the platform’s strong focus on security and encrypted messaging.
