The nightmare we've all dreaded came to life over the past months. WhatsApp became another generic social media app. We're still reeling over the platform's choice to open status visibility beyond contacts and introduce advertisements.
A new update introduces usernames, and this time it's positive. Before WhatsApp, several messaging apps had usernames for years. Telegram, Discord, Snapchat are a few. Here's why it mattered.
No more pressure to give anyone your digits
WhatsApp is introducing usernames as a separate identity layer beside your existing profile name. Your profile name is what existing contacts see when they look at your profile or chat with you.
A username is a new feature addition and it's a unique handle you choose. It allows someone who doesn't have your phone number to find and message you. You won't have to share your number with a new acquaintance, group chat, or anyone you're not ready to give personal contact details to.
The best part is that there is no public directory. Hence, people can't search and browse for you on WhatsApp. They only need to know your exact username, or the optional username key, to reach you.
If your username is @janedoe, you can set an additional code like jane2026. People messaging you for the first time would need to know both exact identifiers. You'll need it as a protective layer in case they stumble onto your username somehow.
WhatsApp is clear that usernames are entirely optional. You are not required to create one, and you can create, change, or delete yours at any time. The feature is a great addition, given that WhatsApp was built entirely around phone numbers. Unlike every other major messaging or social platform, your digits were your identity on the app.
However, usernames don't replace your phone number as the registration requirement. You still need one to create a WhatsApp account.
Reserve your WhatsApp username now
WhatsApp says you can reserve your preferred username before full launch. Do it before someone else steals it. A notification banner should appear in the app prompting you to tap Reserve now.
Your phone number is personal and sometimes you want to connect without handing it over. That's why we're introducing usernames for WhatsApp. Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch the feature.
Whatsapp
Alternatively go to Settings > Account > Username. Interestingly, you can use your Instagram or Facebook username as long as it's not taken.
You can change your username but there's an unspecified limit on how many times. If you delete it, you have a 14-day window to reclaim it before it becomes available for anyone else to take.
Reservations are open this week ahead of the full rollout later this year. You should see a notification when the feature is officially available in your country. Keep WhatsApp updated to the latest version on your device.
That aside, the announcement is a banger way to end the month. June is Internet Privacy Month in the US, afterall. examples.
