WhatsApp is launching usernames: here’s how to reserve yours
WhatsApp has officially initiated a username reservation system, allowing users to communicate without sharing their personal phone numbers.
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The brief
WhatsApp is launching a new feature that enables users to secure unique usernames for their accounts. This change removes the previous requirement for individuals to exchange phone numbers to initiate contact on the platform.
Coverage from WIRED, 9to5Mac, Bloomberg.com, BBC, and The Verge highlights the launch of the reservation system. Reports emphasize that this update is being rolled out to the service's global user base of 3 billion people.
Future updates will clarify the specific privacy settings associated with these new identifiers. Coverage does not yet specify the full range of customization options or the timeline for when usernames will be fully integrated into daily messaging functions.
Synthesized by PULSE from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: all claims supported by sources Updated 78d ago.
Quick answers
Do I still need to share my phone number to use WhatsApp?
The new username feature is designed to allow individuals to chat without the necessity of swapping phone numbers.
How many people have access to this feature?
According to Bloomberg.com, the reservation system is open to the platform's 3 billion users.
How can I reserve my username?
Instructions on how to claim and reserve usernames are provided in the current reports from outlets including The Verge, 9to5Mac, and WIRED.
Coverage (11)
- It’s Time to Reserve Your WhatsApp Username Meta Store · 78d ago
- WhatsApp will allow users to go by usernames instead of phone numbers for added privacy NBC4 Washington · 78d ago
- WhatsApp will allow users to go by usernames instead of phone numbers, closing a privacy blind spot AP News · 78d ago
- You Need to Claim Your WhatsApp Username Right Now Gizmodo · 78d ago
- WhatsApp to let people chat without swapping phone numbers BBC · 78d ago
- WhatsApp usernames launch ‘later this year’ 9to5Google · 78d ago
- Usernames Are Coming to WhatsApp Soon. Here's How to Reserve Yours WIRED · 78d ago
- WhatsApp username reservations are now open, here’s how to claim yours 9to5Mac · 78d ago
- WhatsApp Opens Username Reservations to 3 Billion Users Bloomberg.com · 78d ago
- WhatsApp to let people chat without swapping phone numbers BBC · 78d ago
- WhatsApp is launching usernames: here’s how to reserve yours The Verge · 78d ago
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