WhatsApp Begins Username Reservations for Phone Number Privacy Feature
Summary
WhatsApp is opening username reservations ahead of a gradual rollout later this year. Usernames will let people message without showing their phone number to new contacts or businesses; an optional username key adds a secondary messaging requirement.
Key points
- Users can reserve a username through Settings > Account > Username in the latest app version.
- Once enabled, usernames will hide users’ phone numbers from new contacts and businesses when they initiate a conversation.
- There will be no public directory or suggestion algorithm; someone must know the exact username to contact its owner.
- An optional username key will require a secondary credential before someone can message the user.
- The feature will roll out gradually over the coming months, with in-app notifications by region.
- Creators, small businesses, and organizations can claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames.
Article Details
- Event Type
- WhatsApp is beginning global username reservations ahead of a gradual rollout of its username feature.
- Impact
- The optional feature is intended to let users communicate without showing their phone numbers to new contacts or businesses. Users can also enable a username key requiring a secondary credential before someone can message them. The article says there is no public directory or suggestion algorithm; users must know the exact username to make contact.
Products
SignalThe privacy-focused messaging app Signal has been offering a username feature to enable users to keep their phone numbers private since 2024.WhatsAppWhatsApp is beginning to accept global reservations for usernames, a privacy feature set to launch later this year that will allow users to communicate on the platform without exposing their phone numbers.