WhatsApp is working on a privacy update that will allow people to chat without providing their phone numbers. As part of a phased rollout later this year, users can now reserve unique usernames to secure their handles before they become accessible to the public.

Instead of exchanging mobile numbers, people will be able to use a unique handle to start conversations. According to a blog post published on Monday, WhatsApp will gradually roll out this feature over the next few months.

With over 3 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp said that advance reservations will help people claim their preferred usernames before the full rollout.

Using a username will be optional. If you enable it, you'll finally be able to send messages to new contacts using your handle instead of your phone number.

WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah
In an official post on X on the 'Username' feature, WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah revealed that he had claimed his username before the public rollout. "Timing is everything. I joined WhatsApp early to claim my username before it was released to the world. Now it's time to get yours," Shah wrote, asking users to reserve their favorite names before they become unavailable.

Why is WhatsApp bringing the 'Username' feature?

According to WhatsApp, people often need to stay connected without revealing their phone numbers—at work events, in class, with neighbors, or in parent groups. Giving out your number can feel too personal.

The new username feature lets you share a unique name instead. The company says it focuses on privacy, not social networking. There's no public list of usernames, and WhatsApp won't recommend them to others. New contacts can only message you if they have your exact same username.

How to reserve a unique username on WhatsApp?

Follow the steps below to reserve your username.

Step 1: Update WhatsApp to the latest version.

Step 2: Open Settings.

Step 3: Tap on Account.

Step 4: Select a username.

Step 5: Choose an available username and confirm it.

Note: Usernames can be up to 35 characters long and must meet WhatsApp's naming guidelines. You can change or delete them at any time. The company will reserve handles associated with well-known individuals to reduce duplication.

Meanwhile, creators, brands, and organizations will also have the opportunity to claim usernames that match their Instagram or Facebook accounts, where possible.

To improve privacy, WhatsApp is adding an optional Username Key. New people trying to message you by username will need to enter this key first, and you can update it at any time to manage who can reach you.

 PC: Rochak Khabre