WhatsApp has just announced the launch of “WhatsApp Usernames,” but it isn’t available everywhere yet. The feature is rolling out in phases over the coming months, meaning some users will get access before others.
Meanwhile, the good news is that you don’t have to wait for it to reach your region before securing your preferred handle. WhatsApp is letting you reserve a username right now until the feature goes live on your account. Reserving is optional, but with usernames expected to become the new way people connect on the app without exchanging phone numbers, claiming yours early could be the difference between getting the name you want and settling for whatever is left.
Securing your WhatsApp username is free and quick. You can change or remove your username later if you change your mind. For creators, small businesses, and organizations, claiming a username that matches their existing Instagram or Facebook handle is an option.
Below is a step-by-step guide to reserve your WhatsApp username:
- Update WhatsApp. Make sure you are using the latest version of WhatsApp on your Android or iPhone. Username reservation is only available through the mobile app; it isn’t currently available on WhatsApp Web or Desktop.
- Open Settings. Launch WhatsApp and go to Settings > Account > Username.
- Enter your preferred username. Type in the handle you want. Be aware that your username must be between 3 and 35 characters and follow WhatsApp’s naming policies.
- Check availability. If your preferred username isn’t available, WhatsApp will offer alternatives. Note that certain usernames are reserved for celebrities, public figures, and verified organizations, so those won’t be available.
- Save and confirm. After you have settled on a username, save it. It will then be linked to your account and become visible once the feature fully rolls out later.
- Wait for activation. You’ll get a notification inside the app once usernames go live in your country, since the rollout is happening gradually by region.
A WhatsApp username is an optional, unique handle linked to your account, marked with the @ symbol (@Name123). When it becomes active, it allows others to message or call you without ever seeing your phone number. It’s separate from your display name, which anyone can share with other accounts. Your username must be exclusive to you.
No. A reserved username stays hidden until the feature is fully activated on your account. Only after activation will people who don’t already have your number saved start seeing your username instead.
Not yet. Reserving simply locks the handle in for you. Once WhatsApp activates usernames on your account, you can begin sharing yours as a way for new contacts to reach you without exchanging phone numbers.
WhatsApp will send an in-app notification once your username is activated. From that, your phone number stays hidden from anyone who hasn’t already saved it, and you can use your username as your public point of contact instead.
Yes. Reserving a username is entirely optional, and you’re free to change or remove it whenever you like. Keep in mind that releasing a username makes it available for someone else to claim.
Usernames are unique to each account. When you reserve a username, it will be held for you and others won’t be able to claim it. If the username you want is already taken, you will need to choose a different one. Certain usernames are held for businesses, governments, public figures and can’t be claimed by others.
As long as it’s not already taken, you can claim the same username you use for other profiles by adding WhatsApp to the same Accounts Center as Facebook or Instagram.
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