Meta are introducing usernames for WhatsApp. Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when they launch this feature. With over three billion people on WhatsApp a lot of names overlap, which is why they’re opening reservations early so everyone has the opportunity to select the username that matters to them.
Why – When you connect with someone you don’t want to give your phone number to, you’ll be able to use your user name instead.
For most people, choosing a WhatsApp username should be something unique that only people you want to contact you will know. If you need help picking one, Whatsapp have a username generator to make one work just for you.
For people like creators, small businesses, and organisations who may want to maintain a consistent presence online Meta have reserved an option to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp.
Usernames are our latest step to make WhatsApp even more private. There’s no directory to browse and no suggestions – people will need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time. To help control who can reach you on WhatsApp with your username, Meta have built an optional username key that others will need to know to message you.
Once meta launch usernames, when you message a person or business for the first time they will no longer see your phone number, if you enabled your username.
Reserving your optional username takes just a few seconds on the latest version of WhatsApp — go to Settings > Account > Username.
Meta will be rolling out usernames gradually over the coming months and will notify you in WhatsApp when they’re available in your country.
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thanks