WhatsApp has begun rolling out username reservations, allowing its 3 billion users to connect without sharing their phone numbers.
The new feature is designed to improve privacy by letting people communicate through unique usernames instead of personal mobile numbers. The rollout starts on June 29, with usernames expected to become fully operational later in 2026.
Users can reserve a unique username through the app before the feature is widely available. The update is aimed at making conversations safer, particularly when interacting with new contacts or joining group chats. WhatsApp said the early reservation process gives users a better chance to secure their preferred username before the global rollout.
To protect user privacy, WhatsApp will not introduce a public directory of usernames. People will need to know a user’s exact username to start a conversation. The platform has also reserved usernames linked to public figures, celebrities, government entities and existing Facebook and Instagram accounts to reduce the risk of impersonation.
The update gives users greater control over who can see their phone number while making it easier to connect with others securely. By shifting first-time interactions from phone numbers to usernames, WhatsApp is addressing a long-standing privacy concern without changing the overall messaging experience.
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