WhatsApp starts rolling out usernames in beta, keeps your phone number private

Source: 9to5Google

Overview

WhatsApp has started rolling out, to a limited number of users, the ability to use a username in the app, finally ditching the long‑standing requirement to use your phone number.

As spotted by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is in a “phased rollout” to a “limited” number of users, with the latest beta updates on Android and iOS offering support for the feature. You’ll need the rollout to hit your account before the feature appears in the app.

You can check if the update is available via WhatsApp > Settings > Profile, where a username field will show up. There’s also a pop‑up, as pictured below from the iOS app.

The main benefit of a WhatsApp username is the ability to keep your phone number private, though a phone number is still required to use the messaging app initially.

Restrictions on WhatsApp usernames

• Usernames can be between 3–35 characters.
• Allowed characters: lowercase letters, numbers, periods, and underscores.
• No “www” or domain endings (e.g., .com, .net).
• Must include at least one letter.

You can also link your username from Facebook and/or Instagram, and WhatsApp usernames cannot match an existing name used on either of those platforms.

WhatsApp will also offer a “username key,” a 4‑digit code needed to send messages to a new username. This feature is optional.

Will you use a WhatsApp username?