WhatsApp Username: How to Reserve Yours
WhatsApp has introduced a new feature known as WhatsApp username that will allow users to choose a username instead of their phone numbers.
In a blog post published on June 29, 2026, WhatsApp stated that this new feature allows users to keep their phone numbers private and restrict who can contact them over WhatsApp using their username.
“We are introducing usernames for WhatsApp.” “Usernames are our latest step toward making WhatsApp even more private,” the technology company stated.
WhatsApp stated that there will be no directory to explore people’s usernames and no suggestions, so people will need to know your specific username when contacting you for the first time.
“We’ve built an optional username key that others will need to know to message you,” the blog post states.
Although WhatsApp did not specify when the functionality will go live, it did say that users can start reserving usernames this week and will be notified when it is available in their country.
“Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch this feature,” the release said.
“We’ll progressively roll out usernames over the coming months and alert you via WhatsApp when they’re accessible in your country. With over three billion people on WhatsApp, a lot of names overlap, which is why we’re opening reservations early to allow everyone to select the username that matters to them.”
WhatsApp noted that once this function is available, when someone chats a person or business for the first time, they will no longer see the user’s phone number if the option is enabled.
How to Reserve Your Username
Although it is optional, you can reserve a username. It only takes a few seconds to make the reservation.
- Open WhatsApp and click to Settings.
- Select Account under settings.
- Click the Username
- Choose a new username or select one from your linked Meta accounts (Facebook or Instagram).
- Then save
Note: If the “Username” option isn’t available, update your WhatsApp from PlayStore or Apple Store.
Final Words
WhatsApp explained that each username on the site is unique, and that once a person reserves a username, no other user may claim it.
This is because it will be reserved for the first user to select the name. However, if the person changes or deletes their username at any moment, it becomes open for others to claim.