WhatsApp to Introduce Usernames Just Like Instagram!
WhatsApp is introducing a new username feature that lets users chat without sharing their phone number, improving privacy while rolling out gradually in the coming months.
WhatsApp has announced a new feature that will soon let users chat using a unique username instead of sharing their phone number.
The update, revealed on 29 June 2026 via Meta’s official blog, aims to improve privacy—especially in group chats and conversations with strangers.
Users will still need a phone number to create an account, but it will no longer be visible to people they contact via username. Instead, they can connect by sharing a unique handle, similar to platforms like Signal.
Usernames must be 3–35 characters long and unique. WhatsApp will not offer a public search directory, and users will need the exact username to start a chat. Some names linked to celebrities, public figures, and organisations may be reserved to prevent impersonation.
The rollout will happen gradually over the coming months, and using a username will remain optional.
While WhatsApp says the change boosts privacy, experts note that Meta will still collect usage metadata such as contact patterns and activity times.
