WhatsApp is launching usernames: here's how to reserve yours
News Source
β’2026-06-29T12:00:00-04:00
π° What Happened
WhatsApp is adding a new feature that lets users create usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. You will be able to reserve your chosen username before the feature launches later this year. People will need to know your exact username to message you β there is no browsing or search feature. This makes WhatsApp more private and gives users more control over who can contact them.
π The Backstory
WhatsApp has long required users to share their phone numbers to connect with others. This has been a privacy concern, especially as spam and unwanted messages have grown. Meta, which owns WhatsApp, has been working to add more privacy features. Usernames have been available on other messaging apps like Telegram and Signal for years. This puts WhatsApp in line with its competitors on privacy.
π― Why It Matters
With usernames, you can chat on WhatsApp without giving out your personal phone number. This is a big win for privacy and safety, especially when connecting with people you don't know well.
WhatsApp is adding a new feature that lets users create usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. You will be able to reserve your chosen username before the feature launches later this year. People will need to know your exact username to message you β there is no browsing or search feature. This makes WhatsApp more private and gives users more control over who can contact them.
WhatsApp has long required users to share their phone numbers to connect with others. This has been a privacy concern, especially as spam and unwanted messages have grown. Meta, which owns WhatsApp, has been working to add more privacy features. Usernames have been available on other messaging apps like Telegram and Signal for years. This puts WhatsApp in line with its competitors on privacy.
With usernames, you can chat on WhatsApp without giving out your personal phone number. This is a big win for privacy and safety, especially when connecting with people you don't know well.