Here’s how to reserve your WhatsApp username before the feature rolls out globally

WhatsApp is rolling out username reservations ahead of a major privacy-focused update that will let users connect without sharing their phone numbers, marking one of the platform’s biggest identity changes since its launch. The new feature is expected to reach users globally in phases over the coming months.

Owned by Meta, WhatsApp has started allowing eligible users to reserve unique usernames before the broader rollout begins later this year. The company says users will receive in-app notifications once the feature becomes available in their region, giving them the opportunity to activate their reserved username.

To claim a username, users simply need to update to the latest version of WhatsApp and navigate to Settings > Account > Username. The process takes only a few moments and usernames remain completely optional. Users can edit, replace, or remove their username whenever they choose.

Each username can contain up to 35 characters, although certain names linked to well-known public figures, celebrities, and government officials will be restricted to reduce impersonation risks. If a preferred username has already been claimed, WhatsApp will automatically suggest available alternatives through its built-in username generator.

The feature is designed to strengthen user privacy by allowing conversations to begin through usernames instead of personal phone numbers. This could prove especially useful when meeting new people, joining local community groups, attending events, or participating in school and neighborhood discussions where users may prefer not to reveal their private contact information.

Meta is also extending the feature to creators, businesses, and organizations by allowing eligible accounts to reserve usernames that match their existing Instagram or Facebook identities. The move aims to create a more consistent digital presence across Meta’s ecosystem while making verified brands easier to recognize.

Unlike traditional social media platforms, WhatsApp usernames will not appear in a public directory or searchable database. New contacts must know the exact username to initiate a conversation, and users can optionally enable an additional username key that requires a unique code before receiving first-time messages.

WhatsApp confirmed that its existing safety features—including message blocking, spam reporting, and account protection—will continue to operate alongside usernames. The company says the rollout will expand gradually to its more than three billion users worldwide as it continues building more privacy-focused communication tools.

Industry analysts view the update as one of WhatsApp’s most significant privacy enhancements in years, reflecting growing demand for secure messaging while reducing reliance on phone numbers as the primary digital identity.