WhatsApp now allows users to create unique usernames instead of using a phone number
WhatsApp has begun rolling out a new feature that will change the way users communicate. Now, instead of having to use a phone number, users will be able to create their own unique username.
This new feature will allow users to share their contact information using a nickname without revealing their personal phone number. The company notes that this should make communication more private and convenient.
Users can already reserve their desired username, and the full rollout of the feature is expected later this year. This innovation will be one of WhatsApp’s biggest updates in recent times, as it changes the messaging app’s traditional identification system.
The process of reserving a name, which is described in detail on the WhatsApp blog, is quite simple and takes just a few minutes. Currently, this can only be done through the mobile app on your primary device—the web and desktop versions do not yet support this feature.
To claim a specific username, open WhatsApp, go to “Settings,” select the “Account” section, and tap “Username” in the “Your Account” section.
If you already have a username on Facebook or Instagram, WhatsApp offers a convenient way to import it to maintain a consistent identity across all Meta services. This is especially useful for content creators, organizations, and small businesses for whom it’s important to remain recognizable. If the desired name is already taken, the system will suggest available variations.
Username Key
In addition to simply replacing a phone number with a text-based username, the developers have implemented an extra layer of security—the so-called “username key.” This is an optional four-digit code that gives you full control over who can message you first. If you enable this protection, people who have never chatted with you before will need to enter not only your name but also this special key to start a chat.
- The key isn’t required for people who already have your phone number in their contacts, have messaged you before, or are in the same group as you.
- It’s also not needed by anyone who has scanned your QR code or received a message from you first.
- The key is generated automatically by the system, and you can change it or delete it entirely at any time.
- If you’ve linked your account to a Meta profile that lists your age as under 18, this key will be automatically enabled for added safety for teens.
Why is this important for security, and when can we expect it to launch?
Although phone numbers will still be required to register new accounts, the ability to hide them during everyday communication is a huge step forward. This is especially useful when you want to arrange a purchase with a stranger, chat with someone you don’t plan to stay in touch with long-term, or even connect with work colleagues, but aren’t ready to share your personal number, which is linked to many other aspects of your life.
WhatsApp emphasizes that there will be no general search by username on the platform. This means no one will be able to simply “scroll through” usernames to find random people. To message someone, you’ll need to know their exact username, according to Android Authority.
The feature is currently being rolled out gradually worldwide over the coming months. For now, the app only allows you to reserve usernames to avoid duplication and prevent cybersquatters from snatching up popular nicknames.
Once the feature is fully operational, you’ll be able to change or delete your username in the same settings menu where you reserved it. Until then, the developers recommend keeping the app updated to the latest version so you don’t miss notifications about the availability of names in your country.
Chinese startup DeepSeek is developing its own AI chip — Reuters.
Previously, the Chinese startup DeepSeek unveiled preliminary versions of its new flagship AI model, V4, which it calls the most powerful open-source solution.
We also reported that artificial intelligence sometimes lies, even when it knows the truth.
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