The messaging service is introducing its inaugural username option, enabling subscribers to communicate using distinctive identifiers rather than their telephone numbers.

The platform’s latest privacy enhancement means individuals can reach out to contacts without revealing personal phone digits, relying instead on self-chosen usernames.

The rollout will extend to the application’s entire user base of more than three billion individuals throughout the coming months.

Those eager to claim a particular username can register and secure their preferred choice from this week onwards, with guidance available below.

WhatsApp characterizes usernames as the application’s latest development in enhancing user privacy.

Anyone wishing to connect with a particular individual must know their precise username, as no searchable registry or automated recommendations will be provided.

Following the feature’s launch, when users initially connect and the sender has enabled the username setting, the recipient will be unable to view the sender’s telephone number.

WhatsApp product lead Alice Newton-Rex indicated on LinkedIn that this feature will allow users to communicate without exposing their phone numbers. She added that starting this week, users can reserve a username for when the feature officially launches later this year. She noted that global users will receive simultaneous access to username reservation, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to select their desired username. She emphasized that user demand for this feature has persisted for years, and the team is pleased to finally bring it to market.

The feature will gradually roll out over the coming months, with users receiving in-app notifications when the feature becomes available to them.

Users can begin reserving usernames this week by following these steps.

First, ensure the application has been updated to the latest version. Then navigate to Settings, select Account, and proceed to the username settings to make a selection.

Usernames must be between 3 and 35 characters in length, and the platform offers a generator function for users who need inspiration.

Username reservation is completed through account or profile settings, though this action can only be performed on mobile devices; the web and desktop versions do not currently support this feature. Certain usernames will be reserved for notable individuals or organizations to prevent impersonation risks.

Usernames can be modified or deleted at any time, but once a username is released, other users may immediately register it.