WhatsApp Introduces Usernames — Reserve Yours Now Before the Public Launch

WhatsApp just announced one of its biggest privacy shifts yet: usernames. If you've ever hesitated to hand out your phone number to someone you just met — a new client, a vendor, someone at a networking event — this is aimed squarely at that friction.

What's happening

Starting this week, WhatsApp is letting you reserve a username ahead of the full feature launch later this year. With over three billion people on the platform, name overlap is inevitable, so they're opening reservations early to give everyone a shot at grabbing the handle they want before someone else does.

Why it matters

A phone number is deeply personal and tied to nearly every part of your digital life. Usernames let you start conversations — one-on-one or in group chats — without exposing your digits. Once the feature launches, if you've enabled your username, people messaging you for the first time will no longer see your phone number.

How the privacy model works

This isn't a searchable directory. There's no browse function and no suggestions — someone has to know your exact username to reach you. WhatsApp also built an optional username key, an extra piece of info others must know before they can message you, giving you tighter control over who can make contact.

For creators, businesses, and organizations

If you maintain a consistent presence across platforms, WhatsApp reserved an option to claim your existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp so your identity stays uniform. There's also a built-in username generator if you need help landing on something unique.

How to reserve yours

On the latest version of WhatsApp, go to Settings > Account > Username. It takes just a few seconds. The feature itself rolls out gradually over the coming months, and WhatsApp will notify you in-app when it goes live in your country.

Why this is worth watching for our industry

For those of us running client-facing businesses, this is a meaningful development. Being able to share a professional handle instead of a personal cell number — while keeping your number private until you decide to share it — is a real workflow and privacy win. Worth reserving your brand name early before the good handles are gone.

Source: WhatsApp Blog, June 29, 2026