Messaging giant WhatsApp is rolling out usernames to let users connect without sharing their personal phone numbers, the company announced on Monday.
The new feature aims to give users greater privacy and control over their contacts. “Your phone number is personal and sometimes you want to connect without handing it over. That’s why we’re introducing usernames for WhatsApp,” the company said in a statement.
Starting this week, users can reserve a username that will become active later this year when the feature is fully launched. The process is simple and quick: users need the latest version of WhatsApp, then navigate to Settings > Account > Username.
The move comes as WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, continues to enhance user privacy options amid growing concerns over data sharing and digital security. Once implemented, usernames will allow people to share a handle instead of their phone number when initiating chats or joining groups.
WhatsApp has not yet detailed all technical aspects of the rollout, including availability across regions or specific rules for username selection, but encouraged users to secure their preferred handle early.
