Meta announced on Monday that WhatsApp will introduce usernames for group conversations, allowing users to connect without sharing their personal phone numbers. Reservations for usernames open this week, with the feature rolling out globally later this year.
How the New Username Feature Works
Starting this week, WhatsApp users can reserve a unique username by updating to the latest version of the app and navigating to Settings > Account > Username. The company stated that this change is a significant step toward enhancing privacy on the platform.
"Usernames are our latest step to make WhatsApp even more private," Meta said in a statement. "There’s no directory to browse and no suggestions — people will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time."
To further control who can reach users, WhatsApp has built an optional username key that others must know to send a message. This key adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that only intended contacts can initiate conversations.
Reservation Process and Early Access
Meta is opening reservations early to prevent name conflicts among the platform's over three billion users. "With over three billion people on WhatsApp, a lot of names overlap, which is why we’re opening reservations early so everyone has the opportunity to select the username that matters to them," the company explained.
Businesses and organizations that use the same handle across social media or other platforms can also reserve their usernames in advance. For users struggling to choose a name, WhatsApp will offer a name generator tool.
Privacy and Security Measures
Once the feature launches, when a user messages a person or business for the first time, their phone number will no longer be visible if they have enabled their username. This change addresses a long-standing privacy loophole where phone numbers were exposed in group chats.
In response to concerns about potential misuse, WhatsApp outlined multiple layers of defense. "We’ve put multiple layers of defense in place: username keys limit who can reach you, we limit how many new people any account can contact, and our systems detect and block abuse patterns," the company stated. Users are encouraged to report suspicious activity directly within the app.
Rollout Timeline and Global Availability
Meta confirmed that usernames will be rolled out gradually over the coming months. Users will receive an in-app notification when the feature becomes available in their country. The company did not specify an exact date for the full launch but emphasized that reservations are the first step.
This update is part of Meta's broader efforts to enhance privacy across its messaging platforms, following similar features on other apps like Telegram and Signal.
