WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has begun allowing a limited number of users to reserve usernames ahead of the global rollout of the feature, which is expected to take place over the coming weeks.
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The new feature is designed to let users connect and share their accounts without revealing their phone numbers, providing an additional layer of privacy within the app.
Although the feature has not yet been fully activated, eligible users can already reserve a username so it will be ready once the feature officially becomes available.
How to Reserve a WhatsApp Username
If the feature is available on your account, follow these steps:
Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
Tap Account.
Select Username under the "Your Account" section.
Tap Create Username.
Enter your preferred username.
WhatsApp will automatically check whether the username is available. If it is, you can reserve it immediately.
If the username has already been taken, the app will notify you and offer alternative suggestions through the Suggest a Username option.
Once confirmed, your chosen username will remain reserved for your account and will become active when the feature officially launches.
Some Usernames Will Be Reserved
WhatsApp says certain usernames will be reserved for public figures, government entities, official organizations, and brands to help prevent impersonation and misuse.
Additionally, some users who already use the same username on Facebook or Instagram may be eligible to reserve that identical username on WhatsApp, subject to Meta's policies.
Can You Change Your Username Later?
Yes. Reserved usernames are not permanent. Users can return to the Username section at any time to edit or remove their username by selecting Edit and choosing a new available name.
Extra Privacy With Username Keys
Alongside usernames, WhatsApp is introducing a Username Key, an additional security feature that gives users greater control over who can start a conversation with them.
When enabled, knowing a person's username alone will not be enough to initiate a chat. Anyone contacting the user for the first time will also need to enter a four-digit code linked to that account.
Users can keep the same Username Key or generate a new one whenever they wish, providing an extra layer of protection against unwanted messages.
The username feature is expected to roll out gradually to all WhatsApp users over the coming weeks.
For now, only username reservations are available, allowing eligible users to secure their preferred names before the official launch.
