WhatsApp’s new username feature allows users to connect without sharing their phone numbers—a phased rollout has begun.
Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp has initiated a gradual, phased rollout of a new username feature, allowing users to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers. The feature is being introduced to a limited number of users through the latest beta updates for both Android and iOS, with a global expansion expected over the coming months.
Feature Overview and Availability
The username feature enables users to create a unique handle that can be used as a contact identifier, reducing reliance on phone numbers within the app. Username reservations began this week. Users will receive an in-app notification when the feature becomes available in their region.
To access or check for the feature, users can navigate to Settings > Account > Username or Settings > Profile, where a new username field will appear if enabled for their account. Options include creating a new username, importing one from an existing Instagram or Facebook account, or using a username generator provided by WhatsApp.
Currently, there is no public directory or search function for usernames; users must know the exact username to initiate contact.
Username Specifications and Rules
WhatsApp has established specific guidelines for username creation:
- Length: Usernames must be between 3 and 35 characters.
- Allowed Characters: Lowercase letters, numbers, periods (
.), and underscores (_). - Restrictions: Usernames cannot contain "www" or domain endings (e.g.,
.com,.net). Each username must include at least one letter character. - Uniqueness: Usernames must be unique. They cannot duplicate existing names on linked Facebook or Instagram accounts.
Usernames are optional and can be changed or removed at any time.
Privacy and Security Features
The primary function of the username feature is to allow users to be contacted without revealing their phone number. Once the feature is fully enabled, the username is intended to become the default contact identifier, hiding the user's phone number from other accounts.
WhatsApp is also introducing an optional security measure called a "username key" (referred to as "Key" in some announcements). This is a 4-digit code required for first-time contacts initiating a conversation via username. Users can reset this key to stop new inbound contact from unknown users.
Existing contacts will still see the user's phone number. A phone number remains required for initial account registration and use of the application.
Implementation and Rollout Strategy
Alice Newton-Rex, vice president of Product at WhatsApp, stated that the feature aims to give users control over who sees their phone number. She noted that the company anticipates significant adoption but will evaluate the rollout as it progresses.
Reservations opened early due to high user volume—over 3 billion globally—and to assist creators, small businesses, and organizations in maintaining a consistent online presence. WhatsApp has pre-reserved usernames for celebrities and politicians to prevent squatting.
The feature has been compared to similar systems from competitors, including Signal, which introduced username support in 2024, and Telegram, which has offered the functionality for several years.