WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature to let users create unique usernames instead of only relying on phone numbers. The WhatsApp username feature may include a reservation system, though no official release date has been announced yet.
MENLO PARK: WhatsApp could soon change how people connect, with a new WhatsApp username feature being developed that would allow users to create and use unique handles instead of depending solely on phone numbers. The Meta-owned messaging app has long stood out for requiring mobile numbers to register and connect, but this new development signals a shift more in line with other apps like Telegram.
Spotted by beta testers in recent builds, the username feature is expected to let users select handles that include lowercase letters, numbers, underscores, and periods — but not special characters or web-like prefixes such as “www.” Usernames must also include at least one letter and cannot be composed solely of numbers or symbols, which helps ensure better clarity and avoid confusion or impersonation.
Alongside the update, WhatsApp is reportedly trialling a reservation system that would allow users to claim their desired usernames before the public rollout. This could help long-time users secure their preferred identities early and discourage impersonation by reserving names in advance.
Meta has not confirmed a release date for the feature. However, the presence of a reservation system hints that the feature might be closer to launch than previously expected. If released, this would mark one of WhatsApp’s biggest structural updates in recent years.
This update follows WhatsApp’s announcement last month of an integrated translation tool within chats. The feature is now live on both Android and iOS, supporting a growing list of languages — 6 on Android including English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic, and over 19 on iPhones via Apple’s Translate tool.
The WhatsApp username feature could enhance user privacy, offer customisation, and simplify global messaging, especially in regions where sharing mobile numbers may feel intrusive.
