01.07.2026 06:30
WhatsApp, the world's most popular messaging app, has announced a new feature that will allow users to communicate using usernames instead of phone numbers. With the system set to launch within the year, users will be able to message without sharing their phone numbers. Additionally, an extra security option called a "username key" will be offered to prevent unwanted messages.
WhatsApp has announced a new feature that will allow users to be found by username instead of phone number. The platform under Meta will still require a phone number to create an account, but users will not have to share their number with people they communicate with.
THE ERA OF USERNAMES INSTEAD OF NUMBERS
With the new feature, users can share their WhatsApp username instead of giving out their phone number to people they meet at school, work, events, or social settings.
Alice Newton-Rex, Vice President of Product at WhatsApp, stated that a phone number is personal information and emphasized that the username system aims to give users more control over who they share this information with.
The company announced that the feature will be available within the year and that it will start a reservation process beforehand to prevent username conflicts.
BETWEEN 3 AND 35 CHARACTERS
When the feature is active, users will be able to choose a username from Settings > Account > Username. Usernames will be between 3 and 35 characters. WhatsApp also announced that it will reserve certain usernames for well-known individuals, celebrities, and institutions in advance.
THE FULL USERNAME WILL BE REQUIRED TO SEARCH
In the new system, usernames will not be publicly searchable within the app. To reach someone, you will need to know their exact username. This is intended to prevent the feature from turning into a social network search system. Users will be able to change their username at any time or completely disable the feature.
"USERNAME KEY" FOR ADDITIONAL SECURITY
In addition to the username system, WhatsApp will also offer a new security option called the "username key." When this feature is enabled, knowing only the username will not be enough for someone to send a message. To send a message, the additional key set by the user will also need to be known.
This aims to prevent unwanted messages and provide additional security in case the username spreads uncontrollably.
COMPETITORS HAVE BEEN USING THIS FEATURE FOR A LONG TIME
Messaging apps like Telegram, Signal, and Wire have had the feature to communicate via usernames for a long time. WhatsApp, however, plans to implement this system gradually and in a controlled manner due to its user base exceeding 3 billion.
In the initial phase, QR code support will not be available for username-based additions. Usernames will need to be shared verbally or in writing. It is not yet clear whether WhatsApp will add quick sharing options like QR codes in the future.