WhatsApp opens username reservations for phone privacy

WhatsApp has begun a global reservation period for usernames, a major new privacy feature that will eventually allow its more than three billion users to connect on the platform without sharing their phone numbers. The company announced the rollout on Monday, June 29, 2026, stating that the feature itself will become active later this year.

Users can now visit the Settings menu in the latest version of the app, navigate to Account, and then Username to claim a unique handle. The company is opening reservations ahead of the full launch to prevent overlap among its vast user base. An in-app notification will alert users when the reservation option is available in their country, with the process rolling out gradually over the coming months.

The core function of the usernames is to give users more control over their personal information. When the feature is live, initiating a conversation via a username will not reveal the user's phone number to the new contact. This is designed for situations where sharing a number may feel too personal, such as when connecting with a new classmate, neighbor, business, or when joining community or parent group chats.