WhatsApp is now rolling out usernames. That is, you can now have a username on WhatsApp, just like Instagram or X. WhatsApp says that people will be able to connect to you via your username without having to share phone numbers.
The Meta-owned platform had been working on the username feature for a while, and now, you can finally reserve your username before the feature rolls out to all users.
In a post on X, WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah said he had already claimed his username before the public rollout. “Timing is everything. Joined WhatsApp early enough to claim my username before we release this to the world. Time to get yours,” he wrote.
Why is WhatsApp bringing usernames?
WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging platforms globally, and is used by most of us everyday. So far, if you wanted to contact someone on WhatsApp, you would need to share your number with them.
The Meta-owned platform says that there are many situations where people wouldn’t want to share their number just to get in touch on the app – such as talking to a new neighbour or colleague.
With usernames, you no longer need to share your number to connect on WhatsApp. Instead, you can give your username and Username Key to someone, and then they can reach out to you.
WhatsApp says that there will be no directory for browsing usernames and no suggestions shown to other users. Instead, someone will need to know a person’s exact username before messaging them for the first time.
What is WhatsApp Username Key?
Before we get into how you can get your username on the app, do note that WhatsApp has added an optional Username Key too. This key adds an extra layer of privacy.
When the key is enabled, a person would need to put in this four digit code before they can send you a message.
How to reserve your WhatsApp username?
You can reserve a username on WhatsApp by following the steps below:
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version – applicable for both Android and iOS users
- Go to Settings
- Open the Account page
- Tap on Username
- Choose a username of your choice
As per WhatsApp, usernames can be up to 35 characters long and can be updated, removed or changed later.
According to WhatsApp, reserving usernames early is intended to give users a better chance of securing the name they want before the feature is fully launched. With more than three billion people on the platform, the company says that many names are likely to overlap, which is why it has opened reservations in advance.
Do note that usernames linked to well-known public figures and celebrities will be reserved to reduce impersonation.
After you have chosen your username, you get the option to set your Username Key. This key is generated automatically as a four-digit code, and it can also be updated.
Username reservations are rolling out globally. WhatsApp says that availability will expand gradually over the coming months.
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