Meta announced on Monday that WhatsApp users can begin reserving unique usernames ahead of the feature's full rollout over the coming months. The update allows people to communicate with new contacts without revealing personal phone numbers, addressing privacy concerns for WhatsApp's more than three billion users worldwide. The announcement triggered positive investor response, with Meta shares closing up 2.24% on Monday and gaining a further 0.16% in after-hours trading.
WhatsApp Opens Username Reservation Process
Meta opened early reservations to give users the opportunity to secure preferred usernames before the feature becomes widely available. Users can create their own username or use WhatsApp's built-in username generator for suggestions through the latest version of the app by navigating to Settings > Account > Username. The process takes a few seconds to complete.
Businesses, creators, and organizations can claim usernames that match their existing Instagram or Facebook accounts. Meta stated the feature will roll out gradually over the coming months, and users will receive in-app notifications once it becomes available in their region.
The feature is designed for use in group chats where users often need to interact with people they do not know personally. Instead of exchanging phone numbers, users will share a unique WhatsApp username.
Meta Implements Privacy Controls for Username Feature
Meta confirmed there will be no public directory of usernames, and users cannot browse for other accounts. Someone will need to know a person's exact username before initiating contact. WhatsApp is introducing an optional username key, giving users another level of control over who can send them messages.
Once the feature launches, users who enable usernames will no longer expose their phone numbers when messaging someone or a business for the first time. Existing chats and phone number-based communication will continue to work as normal.
Meta Shares Rise Following WhatsApp Announcement
Investors reacted positively to the expansion of WhatsApp's capabilities. Meta Platforms shares closed Monday's regular trading session up 2.24% before adding a further 0.16% in after-hours trading.
FAQ
When will WhatsApp usernames become available?
Meta announced on Monday that the username feature will roll out gradually over the coming months. Users can begin reserving usernames now through Settings > Account > Username in the latest version of WhatsApp, and will receive in-app notifications once the feature becomes available in their region.
How does WhatsApp's username privacy system work?
Meta confirmed there will be no public directory of usernames, and users cannot browse for other accounts. Someone must know a person's exact username before initiating contact. WhatsApp is also introducing an optional username key that gives users control over who can send them messages. Users who enable usernames will not expose their phone numbers when messaging someone or a business for the first time.
