WhatsApp is opening username reservations worldwide – months before the feature officially launches. Anyone wanting to secure their desired name can now do so before the most popular names are taken by over three billion users. The core change is about increased privacy: in the future, users will be able to chat without sharing their phone number.
WhatsApp has begun rolling out username reservations to all users. This move paves the way for one of the app's biggest privacy improvements in a long time: a username will allow users to send messages without revealing their phone number. This further strengthens the messenger's privacy protection, which until now has relied heavily on the visibility of the phone number. The feature itself will launch in the coming months, but reservations are already open.
This is how the reservation works
The rollout is now underway worldwide, but will be phased in gradually. As soon as the option is available on your device, a notification will appear directly in the app. You can then reserve your desired username in the settings under "Account" and then in the "Username" section. The usernames themselves will then be activated gradually in the individual countries; here too, an in-app notification will inform you as soon as the full feature is available in your country.
More privacy without a phone number
The primary purpose of this new feature is to protect your phone number. Using a username, you can contact new people or businesses and join group chats without revealing your number. WhatsApp emphasizes that the feature remains optional – but those who use it gain an additional layer of control over who can see their number. It's recommended to choose a username that only those you actually want to be contacted by know.
Why the reservation precedes the start
WhatsApp's decision to open username reservations before the official launch has a simple reason: with over three billion users, many are likely to want the same username. Those who register early can secure their preferred name. Additionally, WhatsApp is setting up a process for creatives, small businesses, and organizations that want to maintain a consistent online presence. These accounts can claim the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook.
No directory, but an optional key
Unlike traditional social networks, there will be no searchable directory or recommendation system. Usernames will remain deliberately private: anyone wishing to contact someone for the first time must already know their exact name. For additional protection, an optional username key can also be created. Only those who know this key can contact a person for the first time – a second hurdle against unwanted contact.
Away from the phone number
With the username reservation process, WhatsApp is beginning to move away from using phone numbers as the primary identifier – a model that other messaging apps have long since established. For users, this means more control over their availability without having to sacrifice familiar usability. However, it will likely be several months before the usernames can actually be used actively – reserving a desired name is just the first step. (Image: Shutterstock / Mijansk786)
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