WhatsApp Rolls Out Usernames Globally to Shield Phone Numbers

WhatsApp has started letting users reserve unique usernames that will enable connections without exchanging phone numbers. nypost.com reported the usernames feature is now out of beta testing for the app's more than 3.3 billion users. Users with the latest version receive an in-app notification when the option appears and can reserve a name by going to Settings, then Account, then Username.

Reservations opened this week and remain optional. The company stated that phone numbers are personal and that usernames give people a way to connect without handing them over. Once enabled, first-time messages will not display the recipient's phone number.

A username generator tool will assist those who need help choosing a name. Usernames must be between three and 35 characters. Users can remove or change them at any time. An optional four-digit key can be added for extra control over who can message them.

WhatsApp will hold back certain names for high-profile officials, celebrities, public figures, and government entities to prevent impersonation. There will be no public directory and the app will not suggest names. Creators, small businesses, and organizations can claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames on WhatsApp.

Phone numbers remain required to register for the service. Alice Newton-Rex, vice president of Product at WhatsApp, said usernames represent the latest step to make the app more private. She added that the company designed the feature so people will need to know an exact username to contact someone for the first time and built the optional key to help control who can reach users.

The rollout will reach three billion account holders over the coming months. Signal introduced a similar usernames option in 2024.