WhatsApp is preparing to launch a major privacy feature that will allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers by using unique usernames instead.
The Meta-owned messaging platform announced that the feature will be rolled out globally to its three billion users over the coming months. Beginning Monday, users will be able to reserve a username through the app, although creating one will remain optional.
Under the new system, users will be able to connect and exchange messages simply by sharing their usernames. The platform confirmed that users can change or remove their usernames whenever they choose and will still have access to blocking and reporting tools to deal with unwanted messages.
Usernames can contain up to 35 characters and will be subject to only limited restrictions. However, the names of certain high-profile individuals and celebrities will be protected to prevent impersonation, meaning users will not be able to claim names belonging to prominent figures such as Donald Trump.
WhatsApp described the feature as a significant enhancement to user privacy. Alice Newton-Rex, the platform’s head of product, said many users had expressed concerns about sharing their phone numbers, particularly when joining group chats or communicating with people they do not know personally.
She said the new feature is intended to give people greater control over how they present themselves and connect with others on the platform.
The move mirrors a similar feature introduced by the secure messaging app Signal in 2024.
Despite the privacy improvements, some experts remain cautious. Carisa Veliz, a professor at Oxford University and author of the book Privacy is Power, said the feature offers additional privacy but does not change broader concerns surrounding WhatsApp’s data practices.
According to Veliz, WhatsApp still collects significant amounts of metadata and remains part of Meta Platforms, which has faced criticism over its handling of user privacy in the past.
Once the rollout is complete, users’ phone numbers will no longer be visible to other people on WhatsApp. However, the company clarified that there will not be a public directory of usernames, and a phone number will still be required to create and maintain an account on the platform.
The announcement comes as WhatsApp undergoes leadership changes. The company recently revealed that Kunal Shah will become the new head of the platform, succeeding Will Cathcart after seven years in the role.
The introduction of usernames marks one of WhatsApp’s most significant privacy updates in recent years, reflecting growing demand from users for greater control over their personal information while communicating online.
