CALIFORNIA: Meta has announced the introduction of a long-awaited WhatsApp Username feature, allowing users to connect with others without sharing their personal phone numbers. While the feature has not yet been fully rolled out globally, eligible users can already reserve their preferred usernames through the WhatsApp mobile app.
The new username system is designed to improve privacy by replacing phone numbers with unique usernames during certain interactions. Similar to platforms such as Instagram, X, and Telegram, WhatsApp usernames will enable users to identify themselves without revealing their mobile numbers.
Although the feature itself is expected to become available worldwide in the coming months, Meta has already begun allowing users to reserve usernames in advance. Users who wish to secure a preferred name are encouraged to do so early, as usernames must be unique and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Reserve a WhatsApp Username on iPhone
iPhone users can reserve a username by following these steps:
- Open the WhatsApp application.
- Tap the You tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Open your Profile.
- Select Create Username or Reserve Username (if available).
- Enter your preferred username.
- Save the selection.
How to Reserve a WhatsApp Username on Android
Android users can reserve a username by following these instructions:
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Tap your Profile.
- Choose Create Username or Reserve Username.
- Enter your preferred username and save it.
Username Requirements
Meta has introduced several rules for WhatsApp usernames:
- Each username must be unique.
- Usernames must contain between 3 and 35 characters.
- If a desired username has already been claimed by another user, you will need to choose a different one.
- Reserved usernames can later be edited or deleted by the account holder.
According to Meta, if a user deletes or changes a reserved username, it will become available for others to claim after 14 days.
Existing Social Media Usernames Can Be Used
Meta has also indicated that users who already have usernames on Facebook or Instagram may use the same username on WhatsApp, provided it is available and meets the platform’s requirements.
Feature Still Rolling Out
The company has confirmed that the username feature has not yet been activated for all users. Once it becomes available for a particular account, WhatsApp will notify users through an in-app notification.
Meta has not disclosed how many times a user will be allowed to change their username, although it has suggested that certain limits will apply to prevent misuse.
The introduction of usernames represents one of WhatsApp’s most significant privacy-focused updates in recent years. By allowing people to communicate without exposing their personal phone numbers, the feature is expected to enhance user privacy, particularly when interacting with new contacts, businesses, or members of large groups and communities.
As the global rollout continues, users interested in securing a specific username are advised to reserve it as soon as the option becomes available in their WhatsApp app.
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