Observed Signal · May 25, 2023 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
WhatsApp Tests Usernames Feature
WhatsApp is developing a usernames feature that would let users choose a unique handle to be discoverable by others within the app, similar to social networks. Reported by WABetaInfo, the feature is not yet officially released and has appeared only as an experiment in the Android beta for developers. The username would not have to match the current display name and could be configured in the profile settings. This would allow contacts to be found by username rather than phone numbers, potentially enhancing privacy when communicating with businesses or less-known individuals. There is no published release date, and rollout may vary by user. The article also notes WhatsApp’s separate update enabling message editing after sending for up to 15 minutes, which may be rolled out more broadly in the future.
Beta feature of WhatsApp (Meta); potential impact on user identity and contact discovery in messaging apps.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- WABetaInfo reports WhatsApp is developing a usernames feature.
- The feature has appeared in the Android beta as an experiment for developers.
- Users could choose a unique username and find contacts by that handle.
- Username can be set in the profile settings and may not match the display name.
- WhatsApp may roll out the feature in coming weeks; no official date yet.
- WhatsApp is also testing the ability to edit sent messages for 15 minutes.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedRelated Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
WhatsApp Introduces Usernames to Hide Phone Numbers
Meta-owned WhatsApp has opened a global reservation period for unique usernames that will allow users to communicate without exposing their phone numbers. Reservations began at the end of June 2026; WhatsApp confirmed the launch in a company blog post but said the reserved names will be usable as a replacement for phone numbers only after a phased rollout in the coming months. Account creation will still require a phone number, there will be no public searchable directory, and an optional "Username Key" can be enabled to require a code for first-time messages from strangers. Creators, small businesses and organisations can claim matching Facebook/Instagram usernames. The app exposes a reservation option in Settings > Account > Username and offers a username generator; some users already see the option while others will receive it later.
WhatsApp Adds Usernames, Keeps Phone Requirement
WhatsApp announced a new usernames feature that lets people share their profiles without exposing their phone numbers while still requiring a phone number to create an account. Users can reserve usernames starting today; WhatsApp said the feature will officially roll out later this year and will notify users when reservation becomes available in their country. Usernames must be between 3 and 35 characters (article updated to reflect this). Meta is reserving usernames for top celebrities, VIPs and organizations, and businesses/creators can claim their Facebook or Instagram username as their WhatsApp username. Usernames will not be searchable in the app — only people who know an exact username (or a user’s optional “username key”) can message that account — and users can disable or change the feature at any time. Rival messaging apps including Telegram, Signal and Wire have offered usernames for years.
WhatsApp lets users reserve usernames to hide numbers
WhatsApp has begun opening reservations for user‑chosen usernames so people can connect without sharing their phone numbers. Registrations are available now via an in‑app prompt or Settings > Account > Username, but WhatsApp says usernames will only be activated and usable later in the year. Users can import an existing Instagram or Facebook username or create a new one; WhatsApp can also suggest names. Once the feature fully launches, people who are not saved contacts will see only a username instead of a phone number (for example in groups), reducing exposure of phone numbers. The news was reported by t3n and the article notes the piece was originally published on 2026-06-30 and updated.
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