WhatsApp has started allowing some users to reserve unique usernames before the feature launches more widely later in 2026. The new system aims to improve user privacy by letting people connect without sharing their phone numbers.
Although reservations are gradually becoming available, usernames cannot yet be used to start conversations. The feature is rolling out in phases through the WhatsApp mobile app.
WhatsApp Usernames Will Improve Privacy
The upcoming username feature will give users an optional identity linked to their WhatsApp account.
Once the feature becomes fully available, users will be able to share their username instead of their phone number when connecting with new people. As a result, conversations can begin without exposing personal contact details.
However, existing contacts and members of shared groups may still be able to view a user’s phone number if they already have access to it.
WhatsApp will also avoid creating a public username directory. Likewise, the platform will not recommend accounts with similar usernames.
Instead, someone must know the exact username before contacting another user.
Since WhatsApp serves more than three billion users worldwide, Meta has started the reservation process early. Therefore, users have a better chance of securing their preferred username before the full rollout.
How to Reserve a WhatsApp Username
At present, username reservations are only available through WhatsApp’s mobile applications. The feature does not yet appear on WhatsApp Web or the desktop version.
Additionally, the rollout is gradual. Therefore, some users may not see the option immediately.
For iPhone Users
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap the You section.
- Open your profile.
- Select Create Username or Reserve Username.
- Enter an available username.
- Tap Save, then Done.
For Android Users
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap the three-dot menu.
- Select Settings.
- Open your profile.
- Choose Create Username or Reserve Username.
- Enter an available username.
- Tap Save, then Done.
Users should also keep WhatsApp updated. Furthermore, they should watch for an in-app notification confirming that username reservations are available.
WhatsApp Username Rules
Every username must be unique. In addition, it must contain between three and 35 characters.
Users can include:
- Lowercase letters
- Numbers
- Periods
- Underscores
However, usernames cannot consist entirely of numbers. Similarly, restricted words or phrases are not allowed.
Some users may also receive the option to reserve the same username used on Facebook or Instagram. This option depends on whether another user has already claimed it.
Meanwhile, Meta has reserved certain usernames linked to prominent public figures, politicians, and celebrities. The company introduced this measure to reduce impersonation.
However, it has not explained how every variation or copycat account will be handled.
Can You Change Your Username Later?
Yes. Users will be able to change or remove a reserved username.
However, once a username is released, it will remain unavailable for 14 days. During that period, the original owner can reclaim it.
This waiting period may also help reduce immediate impersonation attempts.
Meta has not yet announced how often users will be allowed to change their usernames. However, some limits are expected after the feature launches.
People concerned about privacy may also prefer choosing a username that differs from their Facebook or Instagram handle.
Extra Security Features Are Planned
WhatsApp also plans to introduce an optional authorization key for conversations started through usernames.
With this system, discovering a username alone will not be enough to send a message.
Instead, a new contact will need both the correct username and the authorization key before starting a conversation.
The company designed this feature to reduce unwanted messages, account discovery, and online abuse. At the same time, it helps users keep their phone numbers private.
Scammers Could Still Exploit Usernames
Despite the added privacy, usernames may create new opportunities for scammers.
Fraudsters could attempt to register usernames that closely resemble friends, businesses, or well-known public figures. Consequently, they may try to convince victims that they are communicating with trusted individuals.
Users should always verify unexpected messages through another communication method. This step becomes especially important when someone requests money, passwords, account information, or verification codes.
India Requests Delay to the Rollout
The Indian government has asked WhatsApp to pause the username rollout in the country until Meta provides additional details about the feature and its safeguards.
Authorities believe usernames could make it more difficult to identify people involved in fraud. They also expressed concerns about impersonation, phishing, and other cybercrimes.
As a result, the government requested a detailed explanation and supporting documents from WhatsApp within three days.
WhatsApp responded by stating that usernames are not yet fully active. The company also said the feature will include protections designed to prevent misuse.
India remains WhatsApp’s largest market, with more than 500 million users. Therefore, the rollout there could remain paused until discussions between Meta and government officials conclude.
Global Rollout Will Continue Throughout 2026
WhatsApp has not announced an exact date for when reserved usernames will become fully functional.
Instead, Meta says the feature will launch later in 2026. Meanwhile, username reservations will continue expanding gradually over the coming months.
Users who want the same identity across WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and other Meta services may benefit from reserving their preferred username as soon as the option becomes available.
