WhatsApp introduces usernames: Messenger use without phone number

WhatsApp has been testing the feature in beta for three years, and now it seems to have started rolling out usernames to some users. This is reported by the blog WABetaInfo, which regularly covers changes in the popular messenger. The feature is reportedly only available to a very small number of users at the moment and is expected to be rolled out gradually in the apps for Android and iOS.

With the alternative of a username, WhatsApp is fulfilling a long-standing user request. By using it, users will no longer have to reveal their mobile number to others, which was previously used to find users on the network or send them messages. The open-source messenger Signal has been offering such a feature to all its users since spring 2024. Meta, on the other hand, has taken its time.

Checking profile settings is worthwhile

Whether you belong to the select group of users who can already set a username is visible in the profile settings. If a new field for the username appears there, it can be tapped directly to set it. If nothing is displayed, you will have to be patient. Meta itself has not yet commented on the rollout. A feature for reserving usernames already appeared in beta versions in October 2025.

According to WABetaInfo, only usernames that do not already exist in other Meta networks like Facebook and Instagram can be newly selected. However, it is possible to choose the same username if you already have it in the other two networks. For this, however, proof via an Account Center is necessary. Only then can the transfer to WhatsApp be made. However, using a cross-network username carries the risk that others may be able to infer a user's WhatsApp username based on their Instagram account name.

Code against spam and stalking

If you want to keep contact requests at bay via your username, you can set a code. Only those who know the username and code will be able to establish initial contact. This is intended to help against spam and stalking.

According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp usernames must be between three and 35 characters long and can only consist of lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. The appearance of a domain or the prefix "www." is prohibited. In addition, a username must contain at least one letter.

(mki)