WhatsApp has started rolling out its new username feature, a long-awaited change that transforms how users communicate on the platform. According to reports from WABetaInfo, some users who reserved their username have begun receiving notifications that their username is now active. From this point on, they can use it to send and receive messages without revealing their phone number.
Activation begins with users who reserved a username
The rollout is gradual. Users who reserved a username during the testing phase are receiving a push notification confirming activation. Once active, the username becomes the new public identifier, but WhatsApp does not create a browsable directory or offer discovery suggestions. To message someone using their username, you must know the exact string.
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Notification to existing contacts
When a user activates their username, WhatsApp notifies everyone with whom they have an active chat, informing them of the change. This allows contacts to update their address book transparently. The feature does not alter ongoing conversations messages continue as usual, but the username can be used as an alternative to the phone number for new chats.
Privacy and security implications
The introduction of usernames is a significant step forward for user privacy. Previously, starting a conversation required sharing a phone number, a sensitive piece of data often targeted by cyberattacks. With usernames, users can keep their number private, using only a chosen identifier. This reduces risks related to phishing and spam, as seen in recent scams on messaging platforms. For example, the FBI arrest of a Florida student for fake Steam games that stole cryptocurrency highlights the importance of protecting personal data.
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How to get your username
To reserve a username, users open WhatsApp settings, select the dedicated section, and choose a unique name. The feature is available to all users running the latest version of the app on iOS and Android. Once activated, the username can be changed at any time, but it is advisable to pick a memorable name that can be easily shared. WhatsApp does not provide an internal search engine for usernames, so sharing must happen through other channels.
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Comparison with other platforms
WhatsApp's move follows a trend already established by messaging services like Telegram and Signal, where handles have long been central. However, WhatsApp takes a more cautious approach, avoiding a public username database to prevent abuse and give users more control. This alignment with security best practices mirrors the growing focus on digital privacy, a topic also covered in the article on kids smartphones and digital safety.
For more technical details on how usernames work, refer to the official WhatsApp Wikipedia page.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/07/17/whatsapp-rolling-out-new-username-feature
