WhatsApp is rolling out the username feature on Android and iOS

With a gradual launch, WhatsApp usernames are now available to a very limited number of users. This feature allows users to connect and communicate with others without sharing their phone number.

WhatsApp tests usernames to enhance privacy and discoverability

In the post about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.1.10.70 update, we announced a feature that brings the username functionality to chats. This feature will make it possible for users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers. By choosing a unique usernames, users will have more control over their privacy while still being easily discoverable and reachable by others. Users will be able to search for contacts using only their usernames, making it simple to connect in a secure way.

Development and careful testing of usernames

WhatsApp has worked to ensure that the username experience is stable and secure. For this reason, the rollout of usernames has taken a significant amount of time. Over the years, the code of the app has been extensively updated to make sure all existing features are fully compatible with usernames. So WhatsApp focused on testing and refining the feature carefully before making it widely available. Finally, WhatsApp is gradually rolling out the username feature to users as part of a phased rollout strategy.

How to check if you have access to usernames

WhatsApp is currently testing usernames with a very limited number of users. To check if you are part of this initial rollout, you need to open your profile settings. Here, users who have access will notice a dedicated option for usernames. If the option is available, users can tap on it to begin creating their username. The process is simple and intuitive, as it guides users step by step. Once a desired username is chosen, it becomes linked to the account. Users can then share this username with others instead of their phone number. This allows people to connect and interact more privately.

Username rules and character requirements

WhatsApp has defined a clear set of rules when users want to choose a username. Usernames cannot start with "www." as this could cause users to believe they are interacting with an official website. For the same reason, usernames also cannot end with a domain (like .com or .net). Usernames must always include at least one letter, so this prevents usernames containing only of numbers or symbols. Additionally, only certain characters are allowed, such as lowercase letters (a–z), numbers (0–9), periods, and underscores. Users must use between 3-35 characters for their username.

Username availability across Meta platforms

The most important requirement is that the username must be available across Meta platforms to be claimed. For example, if a chosen username has not been taken on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, it can be immediately selected as long as it meets the other requirements. If the desired username has already been taken on Instagram and Facebook, users will need to confirm that they are the rightful owner of that username on those platforms before using it on WhatsApp.

Verifying username ownership through Accounts Center

To complete this verification, users must link their accounts through Accounts Center. Accounts Center is a hub where users can manage and connect their Meta accounts in one place, such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. It also allows users to explore additional features, such as sharing status updates on Instagram. Once the ownership is confirmed, they will be able to use the same username on WhatsApp. However, if a username is already taken by someone else on Facebook and Instagram, it cannot be claimed on WhatsApp, even if it appears available there.

Consider privacy when linking usernames across platforms

Note that choosing the same username used on Instagram or Facebook would reveal to others the connection between their WhatsApp account and their accounts on these platforms. As a result, users should carefully consider this before making a decision. If unknown accounts know your username and it's linked to Instagram, they could easily locate your profile there. This could make it simpler for people to identify or contact you across other platforms. If you prefer to keep your Instagram or Facebook separate from WhatsApp, you should choose a different username.

Configure a username key for added privacy

After choosing a username, users can also set up an optional username key. The key is required when someone contacts you for the first time. It ensures that only people who know both the username and the key can reach out. For example, if I have the username "@wabetainfo", but I do not have the username key, anyone who knows that username can contact me on WhatsApp. However, if I set the username key, only those who know the four-digit code along with the username will be able to send messages. This adds a new layer of control and privacy, making it easier to limit messages and calls to trusted users. As a result, we can say that the key works together with the username to make communication more secure.

Finding and messaging users with usernames

To find someone on WhatsApp, users can enter their username in the contacts list. Once the account appears, it is possible to interact with the user without revealing the phone number. If the account has a username key set, you will need to enter the key. After entering the key, you will be able to start a conversation and share messages securely. Messages shared with username accounts are end-to-end encrypted. This means that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages, and not even WhatsApp can access their content.

Username availability and future rollout plans

The username feature is currently available to a limited number of users who install the latest updates of WhatsApp. Note that this feature may not be visible to all users immediately. WhatsApp is slowly introducing usernames to users, so access is very limited. Over the next few weeks, WhatsApp plans to gradually expand access to more users. In the meantime, WhatsApp monitors performance to ensure the feature is enough stable before a wider release.

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