WhatsApp Opens Username Reservations, Letting Users Connect Without Sharing Their Phone Number

Most WhatsApp users have had little control over who can contact them. If someone has your number, they can message you. That is now starting to change.

WhatsApp announced on Monday that users will soon be able to go by usernames instead of phone numbers, describing the move as addressing a privacy blind spot. The app said it has started allowing users to reserve unique usernames ahead of the feature's launch later this year.

Until now, WhatsApp's privacy settings have been limited to blocking individual users and silencing unknown callers. Usernames are intended to give users a new way to control who can reach them in the first place.

How to reserve your Whatsapp username

Users can go to Settings > Account > Username on the latest version of the app. Usernames must be between 3 and 35 characters. WhatsApp said it is reserving usernames for top celebrities, VIPs and organisations to prevent impersonation. Creators and businesses can also claim their existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp.

The full rollout is expected gradually over the coming months. WhatsApp has not given a specific launch date.

What changes, and what does not

A phone number is still required to register and maintain a WhatsApp account. Existing contacts who already have your number will continue to see it. The username is a privacy layer for new connections, not a full anonymity system.

There will be no directory of usernames on the app, and the app will not suggest names as you type. People will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time.

For those who want an additional layer of control, WhatsApp is introducing an optional username key. Even if someone knows your handle, they will need this key to start a conversation. Messages from those without the key go to a separate requests folder rather than your main inbox.

There is also a consideration worth noting for users who share a username across platforms: choosing the same username as on Instagram or Facebook may reveal a link between their WhatsApp account and those platforms.

Key Highlights

Username length: 3 to 35 characters

How to reserve: Settings > Account > Username

Phone number: still required to register and use the app

Existing contacts will still see your phone number

Usernames are not searchable; an exact match is needed

Using the same username across Meta platforms may link your accounts

Full launch: gradual rollout, later in 2026