WhatsApp to enable chats via usernames:Users can chat without sharing mobile numbers; bookings are now open

Until now, starting a conversation with someone new on WhatsApp required sharing your mobile number. That is set to change. Meta-owned WhatsApp has announced the launch of its Username feature, allowing users to chat using a unique username instead of their phone number. The company began rolling out username reservations globally on 29 June. However, the feature will not be available to everyone at once. It will be introduced gradually across countries over the coming months. Users will receive an in-app notification once it becomes available in their region.
WhatsApp CEO Kunal Shah posted on X that he had already reserved his username before the public rollout and encouraged others to secure their preferred usernames as soon as possible. Answers to 8 questions about the WhatsApp Username feature 1. Why is WhatsApp introducing usernames? WhatsApp says users often want to message someone they have just met without sharing their phone number. This is useful when connecting with people from networking events, new classmates, neighbours, or other parents from children’s school or sports groups. With usernames, users can share their username instead of their mobile number. 2. What are the rules for creating a username? Usernames must be 3 to 35 characters long and can only include lowercase English letters (a-z), numbers (0-9), periods (.) and underscores (_). Every username must be unique and can be changed, removed or updated whenever needed. 3. Will my phone number be completely hidden? Yes, but only from people contacting you for the first time. If you have set a username, new contacts will not see your phone number. However, a mobile number will still be required to create and use a WhatsApp account. People who already have your number saved will continue chatting with you as before. 4. Can anyone search my username and find me? No. WhatsApp will not create a public username directory or suggest usernames to other users. Someone can message you only if they know your exact username. 5. What is Username Key? WhatsApp is also introducing an optional security feature called Username Key. If enabled, anyone messaging you for the first time must enter this key before starting a chat. Users can change the key at any time. The feature is designed to reduce spam and unwanted messages. 6. What about Instagram and Facebook usernames? Creators, businesses and organisations will be able to use the same username on WhatsApp as on Instagram and Facebook, wherever available. Some usernames belonging to celebrities and major brands will be reserved to prevent impersonation. 7. Will existing chats and contacts be affected? No. Existing chats, contacts and groups will continue to work as before. People who already have your phone number will see no changes. End-to-end encryption, blocking and reporting features will also remain unchanged. 8. What is the biggest benefit of this feature? Users will no longer need to share their phone number to chat with new people, improving privacy. The feature is also expected to help reduce spam and unwanted messages. For creators and businesses, it will make it easier to maintain a consistent digital identity across Meta’s platforms.