WhatsApp opens username reservations for 3B users

WhatsApp said Monday that its 3 billion-plus users can begin reserving unique usernames ahead of a full launch later this year.techcrunch+1
The feature, developed over several years, lets users connect without revealing their phone number for the first time.thenextweb+1
Meta Platforms is also reserving handles for celebrities and letting businesses claim their Instagram or Facebook usernames.wsls+1

WhatsApp announced on Monday that its more than 3 billion users can begin reserving unique usernames, a long-awaited privacy feature that will allow people to connect on the platform without sharing their phone numbers for the first time.

The Meta Platforms -owned messaging app said in a blog post that usernames will officially roll out later this year, with the reservation period beginning this week to give users a chance to claim their preferred handles ahead of the full launch.techcrunch+2

How It Works

Users who receive the feature can reserve a username by navigating to Settings, then Account, then Username in the latest version of the app. Usernames must be between three and 35 characters and cannot violate the company's policies. WhatsApp said it will notify users when the reservation option becomes available in their country, as the rollout is happening in phases.newswire+4

A phone number is still required to create a WhatsApp account, but once a username is set, new contacts will no longer need to see it. There will be no public directory of usernames on the app, and WhatsApp will not suggest names as users type. "People will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time," the company said.thenextweb+2

WhatsApp is also introducing an optional "username key," a secondary credential that someone must know in addition to the username before they can send a message, adding another layer of control over incoming contacts.techcrunch+1

Businesses and Creators

Companies, organizations, and creators with existing accounts on Instagram or Facebook will get the chance to claim those usernames on WhatsApp. To prevent impersonation, WhatsApp said it is reserving usernames for high-profile people and groups such as celebrities, public figures, and government entities.wsls+2

Meta noted that the reservation process was designed to avoid duplication across its user base of more than 3 billion. Users can turn off the feature or change their username at any point. For now, there is no option to scan a QR code to connect using only a username — handles must be shared verbally or by text.thenextweb+1

Sources (34)