The feature will remain optional, meaning users can continue using WhatsApp normally if they prefer.
WhatsApp is rolling out the username feature on Android and iOS!
The feature is designed to improve privacy by allowing people to connect without exposing their phone numbers.
The company says usernames will remain optional, meaning users can continue using WhatsApp with only their phone numbers if they prefer.
Accounts will still rely on phone numbers for sign-ins, verification, and recovery even after usernames are introduced.
> Tech
WhatsApp is preparing to roll out usernames, giving users a new way to connect without sharing their mobile numbers. Similar to features already available on Telegram and Instagram, the update will let people share a unique handle instead of their phone number for conversations. When someone contacts a user through their username, only the handle will be visible rather than the linked number.
The feature will remain optional, meaning users can continue using WhatsApp normally if they prefer. Each account will support one username, which can be changed later without affecting chats or account activity, while phone numbers will still remain tied to accounts for login and recovery purposes.
WhatsApp is rolling out the username feature on Android and iOS!
With a gradual launch, WhatsApp usernames are now available to a very limited number of users. Discover if you have access and how to claim your username.https://t.co/AJEULwGn67 pic.twitter.com/xMBM1kPRqa — WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) April 8, 2026
WhatsApp Username Feature: How To Set It Up
WhatsApp users will soon be able to create usernames directly through the app’s Settings menu on both Android and iPhone. To set one up, users need to open their profile settings, select the Username option once it becomes available, and choose a unique handle for their account. WhatsApp will automatically verify whether the selected username is valid and available before it can be saved.
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The platform is also introducing specific rules for usernames to prevent misuse and confusion. Usernames must be between 3 and 35 characters long, include at least one letter, and may only contain letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. Certain formats, including usernames beginning with “www”, ending with domain-style extensions, or containing repeated periods, will not be allowed.
The feature is designed to improve privacy by allowing people to connect without exposing their phone numbers. Once enabled, users can share their usernames instead of personal mobile numbers when chatting with buyers, sellers, community groups, or unfamiliar contacts. People who reach out using the username will only see the chosen handle rather than the linked phone number.
WhatsApp has already started testing usernames with some Android and iOS users, with a broader rollout expected later in 2026. The company says usernames will remain optional, meaning users can continue using WhatsApp with only their phone numbers if they prefer. Accounts will still rely on phone numbers for sign-ins, verification, and recovery even after usernames are introduced.
