WhatsApp tests username reservation in beta to preclaim handles

WhatsApp is testing a username reservation system in recent iOS and Android beta builds that would let users preclaim unique handles before the feature is rolled out more widely, a step the company says is intended to give people a way to communicate without sharing their phone number. The functionality appears in the app's profile settings and is being prepared as an early-access option so users can secure desired usernames ahead of a broader release.

Beta builds indicate reserved usernames will be linked to user accounts to ensure exclusive ownership when the feature launches. WhatsApp has described the change as a way to "Get more protection for your phone number. People who don’t have your number saved will see your username instead." The reservation phase is described as a fairness measure to prevent popular names from being claimed only by early adopters in initial rollout groups.

The testing includes specific formatting and safety rules for usernames. Reported requirements limit characters to lowercase letters a to z, numbers 0 to 9, periods and underscores. Usernames must include at least one letter, be unique across the platform, and be between three and 30 characters...