WhatsApp is set to roll out the username feature to a very limited number of users over the coming months. This feature will allow users to connect and communicate with others without sharing their phone number.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature: | Usernames |
| Compatibility: | Android, iOS, Windows, and Web are designated to be platforms compatible with the username system. |
| Availability info: | WhatsApp is set to make the username feature available to some users over the coming months. |
| Previous news: | WhatsApp announces an official CarPlay app on the App Store! |
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. This means that users will have more control over the privacy of their phone number by choosing a unique usernames. Users will be able to interact with others using 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 is taking 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. It seems that WhatsApp is set to roll out the username feature to users as part of a phased rollout strategy over the coming months.
Once WhatsApp rolls out usernames for my account, how to check if the feature is available?
When this feature becomes widely available in the future, you will have to open your profile settings to check if you are part of the future, initial rollout. 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 will be simple and intuitive, as it guides users step-by-step. Once a desired username is chosen, it becomes linked to the account. Users will be able to share the username with others instead of their phone number. This will allow people to connect and interact more privately.
Username rules and character requirements
WhatsApp has defined a clear set of rules when users will have 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 will have to 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 will have to 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 will also be able to 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 will have to enter their username in the contacts list. Once the account appears, it will be 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
WhatsApp is set to release the username feature to a limited number of users who install the latest updates of WhatsApp over the coming months. Note that this feature is not visible to all users yet. Additionally, access will be very limited. Only a small group of users will be able to try it before a wider release. In the future, WhatsApp plans to gradually expand access to users. During the future rollout, WhatsApp will monitor performance to ensure the feature is enough stable before a wider release.
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