Key Highlights

• WhatsApp has started rolling out username reservations before the feature launches later this year.
• Users will be able to connect without revealing their phone numbers during first-time conversations.
• Businesses, creators, and organizations can reserve matching Instagram or Facebook usernames.
• WhatsApp says usernames will include additional privacy protections, including an optional username key.

WhatsApp has announced the rollout of username reservations, giving users the opportunity to secure a unique username before the feature launches globally later this year. The update is designed to let people start conversations without sharing their phone numbers, adding another layer of privacy to one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms.

The company says reservations begin this week, with the feature rolling out gradually across different countries over the coming months.

How will WhatsApp usernames work?

The new WhatsApp username system allows users to choose a unique identity that others can use to contact them instead of their phone number.

According to WhatsApp, the feature is meant for situations where sharing a personal phone number may not feel comfortable. For example, users can connect with classmates, neighbors, event participants, or community groups without revealing their mobile number.

Once usernames become available, people messaging you for the first time will only see your username if you have enabled the feature. Your phone number will remain hidden during those initial conversations, giving users greater control over their personal information.

Since WhatsApp serves more than three billion users worldwide, the company has opened reservations early to give everyone a fair opportunity to claim their preferred username before the public rollout.

What privacy features are included?

Privacy remains the biggest focus of the new feature.

WhatsApp says there will be no public directory where usernames can be searched or browsed. Instead, someone must know your exact username before they can initiate a conversation.

The company is also introducing an optional username key, which adds another verification layer. Users who enable this setting will require others to know both their username and the additional key before sending the first message.

These measures are designed to reduce unwanted messages while giving users more control over who can contact them.

What about creators and businesses?

WhatsApp is also targeting creators, small businesses, and organizations that already have an established online identity.

To make branding easier, eligible users will be able to reserve the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook. This could help businesses maintain consistent identities across Meta’s platforms while making it easier for customers to recognize official accounts.

For users who struggle to find an available name, WhatsApp has also introduced a built-in username generator that can suggest unique alternatives.

How can you reserve your WhatsApp username?

Reserving a username only takes a few steps. Users running the latest version of WhatsApp can navigate to Settings, then Account, and finally Username to reserve a name before the wider rollout.

However, WhatsApp notes that username availability will expand gradually. Users whose region has not yet received access will receive an in-app notification once the feature becomes available in their country.

Conclusion

With username reservations now opening worldwide, WhatsApp is taking another step toward making conversations more private without changing how the app works. As the rollout continues, the new WhatsApp username feature could reduce the need to share phone numbers while giving users, creators, and businesses more control over their identity and privacy.