WhatsApp is set to roll out the use of usernames over the coming months, allowing users to keep their mobile phone numbers hidden from others.
Initially, however, the names can only be reserved by users running the latest version of the Android or iOS app - meaning users should keep an eye out for updates in the app stores.
It may take a few more days for the latest app version - in which the reservation feature is available - to reach all devices. Once it does, a "Reserve username" option should appear in the app settings under Profile. From there, users can choose a name. Usernames are always precedes by an @ symbol.
Max 35 characters, not only numbers
When choosing a username, users must bear the following in mind:
- It must be between 3 and 35 characters long.
- It can consist of lower-case letters (a to z), numbers, underscores and full stops.
- It can't be made up of nothing but numbers.
Some usernames are reserved for companies, authorities or public figures. If a desired name is not available, users can have suggestions for possible usernames generated directly based on their input.
As long as it has not already been taken, users can claim the same username they may use on Facebook or Instagram. To do so, WhatsApp must be added to the same account overview.
Usernames are optional - and can be changed or deleted
Here is what else is worth knowing about WhatsApp usernames:
- Regardless of the username, a mobile phone number remains mandatory for creating and using a WhatsApp account.
- The username differs from the display name - that is, the name shown on the profile.
- Usernames are optional; no one is required to reserve or use one.
- Usernames can be created, changed or deleted at any time. Note: As soon as a username is changed, the previous username can be claimed by others.
- Anyone who deletes their username entirely has 14 days to reclaim it before it becomes available to others.
- Even with a username set up, others can still contact a user via their phone number if they have it.
PIN-protected usernames
WhatsApp is also set to introduce PIN protection for its upcoming username feature, an extra layer of security meaning that knowing someone's username alone will not be enough to start chatting with them.
Once usernames are activated, users will also be able to set up PIN codes. By sharing these with someone, users can determine who is allowed to contact them via their username.
Usernames are intended to increase security and privacy, because simply knowing a phone number will no longer be sufficient to contact someone without their consent, the option to call outside the messenger will be removed and others will not be able to simply pass on a user's mobile phone number to third parties.
Rival messaging app Signal introduced usernames as an alternative, secure way of making contact in early 2024. There, the name can also be changed as many times as desired or deleted entirely. In addition, usernames on Signal can also be used only temporarily for specific occasions.
What's next with WhatsApp usernames?
Users who have reserved a name will receive a notification in the app as soon as the username feature has been activated. They will then be able to share their username with new contacts instead of their phone number.
Until then, no one will be able to see a user's reserved username and no one can be contacted via the reserved username. Once a username is active, people who do not have the user's number saved will only see the new username. Those who do have the number will continue to see it, along with the new username.
