WhatsApp launches username reservations for phone-number-free chats

WhatsApp began rolling out username reservations on June 29, 2026, allowing users to claim a username they can use later this year to chat without sharing their phone number. The feature will be fully launched later in 2026, and users will receive in‑app notifications when they can reserve a name. With the username system, people can connect with others without exposing their phone numbers; there will be no public directory or suggested usernames, so a first‑time contact must know the exact username to send a message. An optional "username key" adds extra security: anyone trying to message you for the first time must enter a unique key you set, helping block unwanted messages. WhatsApp says the move gives users greater privacy control, noting that with over three billion users many names overlap, so early reservation lets people secure the username that matters to them. The company stated, "Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch this feature. With over three billion people on WhatsApp, many names overlap. That's why we're opening reservations early to give everyone an opportunity to secure the username that matters to them."

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/30/whatsapp-dumps-use-of-phone-number-introduces-username/