WhatsApp Is Replacing Phone Numbers With Usernames

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Up to this point, adding someone on WhatsApp has meant giving them your phone number—which is perhaps not something you always want to divulge, especially if you only just met, or you're in a group chat with lots of other people.

That's finally changing: WhatsApp is embracing usernames. The update is launching "later this year," according to WhatsApp, though you can start reserving your name of choice this week. It'll work much like usernames do on other messaging and social media platforms, meaning you'll no longer need to give up your digits to chat with someone.

"Usernames are our latest step to make WhatsApp even more private," explains a recent WhatsApp blog. "There's no directory to browse and no suggestions—people will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time."

There's also an extra level of security just in case you think someone else might stumble across or guess your username: There's an optional username key you can add, which other people will need in order to be able to add you.

WhatsApp didn't offer precise timings on the rollout, but it says usernames will start appearing "gradually over the coming months" and that users will get alerts when the feature is available in their region. Once usernames are enabled, they'll replace phone numbers when making new connections.

How to claim your WhatsApp username

Creators, small businesses, and organizations can claim the same username they have on Facebook or Instagram. For everyone else, you can head to Settings in the mobile app and choose Account > Username—though the option doesn't seem to be live yet for everyone (if you don't see it, try updating the app).

And just in case you were thinking about reserving @TomHolland or @Zendaya, WhatsApp told The Verge that celebrity and politician names have already been reserved. If you're completely stuck for inspiration, there's going to be a username generator you can make use of, too.

The announcement blog post specifically says reservations will be open "starting this week," so if you're keen to bag your username of choice before anyone else, keep a close eye on WhatsApp in the coming days.