More than 3 billion WhatsApp users will soon be able to use usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers, as Meta prepares to roll out one of the platform’s most requested features.
WhatsApp has been developing username support for more than a year, after the feature was first discovered in beta versions of the app. Now, the company has begun allowing users to reserve their preferred usernames ahead of the official launch.
“It’s time to reserve your WhatsApp username,” the company announced in a post on its official website.
To reserve a username, users can open the WhatsApp mobile app, navigate to Settings, and tap Username under the Your Account section.
The page displays a message stating, “Usernames are coming soon. Reserve yours today,” allowing users to either create a unique WhatsApp username or link the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook.
WhatsApp recommends reserving usernames as early as possible. However, creators, businesses, and organizations that want consistent branding across Meta’s platforms may have less urgency. The company confirmed that users with existing Instagram or Facebook usernames have a reserved option to claim the same identity on WhatsApp.
During testing, some users found their preferred username unavailable until they signed into their Instagram or Facebook account through WhatsApp. Once connected, the matching username became available to reserve.
Usernames have been one of the most requested features on WhatsApp for years. Currently, users must rely on their phone number as their primary identity, which can create privacy concerns for those who prefer not to share personal contact information.
With more than 3 billion users worldwide, demand for popular usernames is expected to be high. Users who want a specific username are encouraged to reserve it as soon as the feature becomes available, particularly if they do not already own the matching username on Instagram or Facebook.
