WhatsApp to Introduce Usernames, Allowing Chats Without Sharing Phone Numbers
WhatsApp is introducing one of its biggest privacy updates yet, giving users the option to connect with others without revealing their personal phone number.
The new username feature will begin rolling out to the platform’s estimated three billion users over the coming months, with the ability to reserve a unique username becoming available from Monday.
Instead of exchanging mobile numbers, users will soon be able to add and message each other using usernames alone. The change is designed to give people greater control over their privacy, particularly when joining community groups, events or connecting with people they don’t know personally.
More Privacy, More Control
WhatsApp says usernames will be entirely optional. Existing users can continue using the app exactly as they do today, while those who prefer extra privacy can create, edit or remove their username whenever they choose.
When the feature is fully available, phone numbers will no longer need to be shared during conversations started through usernames. Standard safety features such as blocking and reporting unwanted contacts will remain in place.
How Usernames Will Work
Usernames can be up to 35 characters long, although some names associated with well-known public figures, celebrities and government officials will be reserved to prevent impersonation.
There will also be no public directory for browsing usernames, meaning people will only be able to connect if they already know someone’s username.
Users will still need a valid phone number to create and verify a WhatsApp account, even if they choose not to share it with others.
A Feature Already Seen Elsewhere
The move follows a similar update introduced by the secure messaging platform Signal in 2024, which also allows users to communicate using usernames instead of phone numbers.
WhatsApp says the change has been driven by feedback from users who wanted more flexibility over how they share their contact details, particularly in large group chats and online communities.
Privacy Debate Continues
While many users are expected to welcome the added privacy, experts note that the update does not change how Meta collects certain account information.
Although WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption means the company cannot read the contents of private messages, Meta still gathers metadata such as when users communicate and who they interact with. This information can be used to support advertising and improve its services.
Privacy campaigners have welcomed the username feature but argue it does not address wider concerns about data collection across Meta’s platforms.
Other Changes at WhatsApp
The username rollout comes during a period of change for the messaging service. Recently, Meta announced that fintech entrepreneur Kunal Shah will become the new head of WhatsApp, replacing Will Cathcart after seven years in the role.
The platform also confirmed that the minimum age for using WhatsApp remains 13, with messaging apps currently excluded from the UK’s planned social media restrictions for under-16s.
As the feature rolls out globally over the coming months, WhatsApp users will soon have another way to stay connected while keeping their phone numbers private.
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