WhatsApp to let users reserve usernames from next week: Here's how it works

WhatsApp is finally beginning to let users keep their mobile numbers private while chatting on the personal messaging app. There have been rumours for a few months that the Meta-owned app is opting for a username-based system. The company made the announcement official in a blog post on Monday, where it also said that reservations for these usernames would go live next week.

While the username can be reserved from next week, the feature itself will be coming out to WhatsApp users later this year.

“Usernames are our latest step to make WhatsApp even more private. There's no directory to browse and no suggestions – people will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time,” the company wrote in a blog post.

How will WhatsApp usernames work?

WhatsApp says it is opening early reservations for usernames because it knows many of these names could clash, and it wants to give everyone the opportunity to select a username that is special to them.

WhatsApp is also giving users the ability to find a username related to them using the username generator tool.

Meanwhile, the company says that creators, small businesses and organisations will be able to reserve their existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp. However, it is not yet clear how this feature will work for small creators.

The Meta-owned app is also building an optional username key that adds an additional layer of privacy. So, once the setting is enabled, anyone with your username won't be able to message you unless they also have the optional username key.

“Once we launch usernames, when you message a person or business for the first time, they will no longer see your phone number if you enabled your username,” the company wrote.

How to reserve your username?

The username reservation feature hasn't been rolled out yet, so you'll have to wait for the official announcement from WhatsApp before rushing to reserve.

Once the feature does go live in your region, here's how you can reserve your username:

• Update the WhatsApp app to the latest version for your OS.
• Open the app and go to Settings.
• Click Account, then tap Username. You should now see the settings to select your username.