WhatsApp begins username rollout, letting users keep phone numbers private
WhatsApp users will soon communicate without sharing their phone number, as the Meta-owned app begins a global rollout of a username feature designed to improve privacy.
WhatsApp, the messaging platform with over three billion users, on June 29 began letting people reserve unique usernames in select regions, a step toward removing the automatic sharing of phone numbers when contacting new people or joining groups.
How usernames will work
Instead of a phone number, a username acts as a private identifier for starting conversations. Users must know the exact username – there is no public directory or suggestion system. The feature is opt-in, and a phone number is still required to register an account.
Your phone number is personal and sometimes you want to connect without handing it over. That's why we're introducing usernames for WhatsApp.
Once active, anyone who does not already have your number saved will see only your username, even in existing group chats. WhatsApp says the change adds a layer of control, especially for situations like joining school or community groups where participants may be strangers.
Reservation process and timeline
Reservations opened on June 29, 2026, and are appearing gradually across countries. To claim a name, users go to Settings > Account > Username and enter a unique identifier of 3 to 40 characters. A built-in generator helps when a desired name is taken.
- Username reservation opens in select regions.
- Full global availability of username-based contacts expected.
Public figures, businesses and organisations can claim the same username they use on Facebook or Instagram, and certain high‑profile names will be permanently reserved to prevent impersonation.
Privacy and control
Alice Newton‑Rex, WhatsApp's head of product, said the change responds to long‑standing user feedback.
When you meet someone new, whether a classmate, a neighbour or someone you met at an event, sharing your phone number can feel like a big step.
She added that the company will consider the feature a success when people get "another way to feel secure on WhatsApp" by keeping their phone number private.
Reception and caution
Privacy scholar Carissa Véliz of Oxford University welcomed the feature but urged users to keep the broader context in mind.
It's a nice feature. While it provides extra privacy, remember that overall WhatsApp is not a privacy‑friendly app.
She noted that WhatsApp collects metadata for marketing and that the app is owned by Meta, which she described as "one of the worst tech companies when it comes to privacy." Personal chats remain end‑to‑end encrypted, meaning WhatsApp cannot read their content.
