WhatsApp launches username reservation: how to get yours

Meta has taken the first step toward one of the most significant transformations in WhatsApp's history: the introduction of usernames. As of June 29, 2026, users can reserve their @username, although the full functionality is not yet active. This change, which breaks away from the traditional phone number identification model, promises to revolutionize privacy and how we connect on the platform.

What happened?

WhatsApp has enabled the "Username" section in Settings > Account for those with the latest version of the app. There, you can create a unique identifier between 3 and 35 characters, which must start with a letter and can include periods and underscores. If the name is already taken, the app suggests alternatives. Additionally, there is an option to claim the same username you have on Instagram or Facebook by linking accounts through the Meta Accounts Center.

The rollout is gradual: according to WWWhat's new, many users still don't see the option in their menu. The full feature, which will allow receiving messages without sharing your phone number, will arrive in the coming weeks or months, according to Meta. Until then, the reservation is just a placeholder.

Why is it important?

Since its launch 17 years ago, WhatsApp has identified users exclusively by their phone number. This forced users to share their personal number with strangers, causing privacy issues. With usernames, it will be possible to start conversations without revealing your number, similar to how Telegram or Signal work. For WhatsApp's 3 billion users, this represents a paradigm shift in digital identity management.

Historically, the need to share a phone number has been a barrier to WhatsApp adoption in professional and privacy contexts. For example, in countries like India, where WhatsApp is the primary communication channel, users have turned to apps like Telegram to keep their number private. With this update, Meta aims to retain those users and attract new ones who value privacy. Compared to the launch of ephemeral messages or end-to-end encryption, this change is equally momentous, as it redefines user identity on the platform.

Consequences and opportunities

The early reservation has sparked a race for short and desirable names. Those who act quickly can secure identifiers like @juan or @tech, while those who wait may find them taken. For businesses using WhatsApp Business, having a username consistent with their brand will be crucial for visibility. Additionally, integration with the Meta ecosystem (Instagram, Facebook) will allow for a unified identity.

However, the full feature — which will allow receiving messages without sharing your number — is not yet available. Meta has said it will arrive in the coming weeks or months. Until then, the reservation is just a placeholder. Also, keep in mind that usernames will not replace the phone number as the primary identification method, but will be a complement. This is similar to what Telegram did in 2013 when it introduced usernames, allowing users to communicate without sharing numbers. Signal also adopted this feature in 2020. The key difference is scale: WhatsApp has 3 billion users, making the competition for short names much more intense.

From a market perspective, this move by Meta is strategic to compete with Telegram and Signal, which already offer this functionality. It also strengthens the Meta ecosystem integration, as users can claim the same username they use on Instagram or Facebook. This could increase user retention and reduce churn to other platforms.

What should readers know?

• Update WhatsApp to the latest version to see the reservation option.
• Choose a name that is easy to remember and, if possible, consistent with your other social media.
• If you don't see the option, wait a few days; the rollout is gradual.
• Do not share your username publicly until the feature is fully active, as anyone could message you without needing your number.
• Link your Meta account to claim the same username you use on Instagram or Facebook.

"The reservation of usernames on WhatsApp marks the beginning of a new era for messaging, where privacy and personalization come together. It is a strategic move by Meta to compete with Telegram and Signal, and to further integrate its ecosystem."

Looking ahead

This launch is just the beginning. WhatsApp is expected to introduce features like the ability to have multiple usernames, account verification (similar to the blue checkmark), and user search by @name. The platform could also allow usernames to be transferable or sold, though this is not confirmed and is speculation. What is certain is that digital identity on WhatsApp will change forever.

Historically, the introduction of usernames on other platforms has led to secondary markets for names, as happened with Twitter and early handles. It is possible we will see a similar phenomenon on WhatsApp, where short or brand names become digital assets. However, Meta has not confirmed any policy on this, so users should be cautious before investing in names.

In summary, the reservation of usernames on WhatsApp is a milestone that will change how we connect. With 3 billion users competing for short names, the race has already begun. Secure yours as soon as possible.