Soon you’ll be able to text someone on WhatsApp without exchanging phone numbers. Instead, you’ll be able to connect using unique usernames.
So, why is Meta doing this now? The company says many people have reported that they don’t feel comfortable sharing their phone numbers, citing that they’re added to stranger WhatsApp groups.
Usernames on WhatsApp aren’t a new idea. Rival messaging apps like Telegram have supported usernames for over a decade. Signal, another messaging app, introduced a very similar feature back in 2024.
WhatsApp is owned by Meta (formerly Facebook), which frames the rollout of usernames on the message app as a feature designed to improve privacy. That said, it’s on record that Meta isn’t necessarily the tech company with the best record when it comes to privacy.
Can you choose any username you want? You’ll have a lot of freedom, but there are limits. Usernames must be fewer than 35 characters and can only include lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. Usernames of high-profile public figures, officials, and celebrities on meta platforms like Facebook and Instagram have already been reserved to curb impersonation. You won’t be able to claim or reserve usernames like @potus or @pontifex.
Rolling out usernames on WhatsApp will take time. With about 3 billion users worldwide, it could take months for WhatsApp to roll out the feature to everyone.
Phone Number Privacy
Once fully active, usernames will become the default way to start new chats without revealing your mobile number. Just like on Telegram, usernames will only hide your phone number from strangers, while your existing friends and mutual contacts will still be able to see it.
Further into privacy, there won’t be a public directory of usernames, meaning people won’t be able to browse or randomly search for WhatsApp users. To text someone, you must know their exact username, share a WhatsApp group, or receive their direct link. A phone number will still be required to create and maintain a WhatsApp account.
How to reserve a WhatsApp username
To reserve your username, open WhatsApp and go to Settings > Account, then look for Username under Your account. If you don’t see the option yet, the feature hasn’t reached your account.
