LONDON (AP) — WhatsApp is introducing a new privacy-focused feature that will let users connect using unique usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers.
The messaging platform announced on Monday that users can now begin reserving unique usernames ahead of the feature’s official rollout later this year. Once available, people will be able to communicate through these usernames rather than exposing their phone numbers.
With more than 3 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp has traditionally required a phone number for others to initiate contact. The new option aims to give users greater control over their privacy.
Rollout Planned in the Coming Months, Exact Launch Date Unclear
Owned by Meta Platforms, WhatsApp said in a blog post that the username feature will roll out in the coming months, though it has not given an exact release date.
“We have designed this as a core privacy feature,” said Alice Newton-Rex, WhatsApp’s vice president of product, during a media briefing.
To further protect privacy, WhatsApp confirmed there will be no searchable username directory, and the app will not suggest usernames while users are typing.
Users will need to know a person’s exact username before they can start a conversation with them, Newton-Rex explained.
At present, WhatsApp’s privacy tools mainly allow users to block specific contacts or mute calls from unknown numbers. Although the app lets people set a profile name, it is only visible in group chats to participants who have not already saved that user’s phone number in their contacts.
Regional Usage Patterns of WhatsApp and SMS
Although traditional text messaging remains more popular than WhatsApp in the United States, the app has a strong user base across Europe, Asia, and many other parts of the world.
As unique online usernames are often in high demand, many users are expected to rush to secure their preferred handles.
“I think a lot of people will want to claim their usernames, which is why we decided to open reservations early,” Newton-Rex said.
Businesses, organizations, and content creators with existing accounts on Meta’s platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, will also have the opportunity to reserve matching usernames on WhatsApp.
Usernames must contain between three and 35 characters. To reduce the risk of impersonation, WhatsApp said it will reserve usernames associated with well-known individuals and organizations, such as celebrities, public figures, and government agencies.
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