WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature enabling users to share usernames instead of phone numbers, enhancing user privacy, WABetaInfo reports. The development of this feature has been ongoing for several months, with a wider release planned later this year.
The platform initiated outreach to business account holders in November of the previous year regarding the feature’s expected rollout in 2026. Currently, the usernames feature is being introduced in phases to a limited number of users on both Android and iOS.
Users can verify their access to the feature by checking the profile settings in the app. This new functionality aims to allow individuals to share usernames with others without disclosing their phone numbers, similar to how other social media platforms operate.
Phone numbers will remain hidden from those reaching out via usernames. WhatsApp has established a character limit of 3 to 35 for usernames, which must not begin with “www.” or end with domain extensions such as “.com,” “.in,” “.edu,” or “.net.” These guidelines aim to reduce confusion regarding interactions and prevent users from mistakenly thinking they are engaging with a website.
Usernames must contain at least one alphabetical character, prohibiting combinations consisting solely of special characters or numbers. WhatsApp allows the use of underscores, lowercase letters, and periods in usernames.
Furthermore, usernames must be unique across all Meta products, including Instagram and Facebook. Users will have the option to confirm ownership of a username on those platforms before using it on WhatsApp, which will involve linking their accounts through the Accounts Center.
