WhatsApp Will Enable Usernames to Protect Phone Numbers
The platform is rolling out a username feature that removes the need to share personal contact details.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Internet
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WhatsApp has announced it will introduce a username feature, allowing three billion users globally to communicate without disclosing their private phone numbers. This update, currently in the rollout phase, enables users to select unique identifiers for their accounts.
Why it matters
The change directly addresses long-standing user requests for improved privacy and identity protection on the platform. By decoupling account identity from phone numbers, the service aims to align its communication standards with other social networking models.
Users can reserve usernames up to 35 characters in length within their profile settings. The feature will be exclusive to mobile, as it will not be supported through WhatsApp Web or Desktop.
The players
A global messaging service with three billion users owned by Meta, providing end-to-end encrypted communication tools.
Meta Accounts Centre
A centralized management system used to link and manage identity and settings across Meta's suite of social platforms.
The details
To implement this, users navigate to their account settings to reserve a unique handle. These identifiers can be linked to existing Instagram or Facebook accounts via the Meta Accounts Centre—a centralized management interface for cross-platform identity. High-profile figures will have their names protected to prevent impersonation, and users retain the ability to update or delete their usernames at any time.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: Official reporting on the impending global rollout.
The Tech Race
This development brings the platform in line with competitors like Telegram and Signal that already prioritize non-number-based contact methods. It follows the wider industry move to shift from phone-number-based registration to flexible user handles.
Once available, the feature will allow users to initiate conversations with new contacts without revealing their primary phone number. Note that this functionality will be limited to mobile devices and will not be accessible via WhatsApp Web or Desktop.
The takeaway
The move represents a significant pivot in how three billion users secure their personal metadata on the platform. Watch for the official activation in your account settings menu as the global deployment continues.
Further reading
For broader trends in digital identity, visit the Internet section.
Live Poll
Do you trust that new username features will protect your privacy on social messaging apps?
