WhatsApp is rolling out a major privacy update that will allow users to create unique usernames, eliminating the need to share phone numbers when connecting with others. The Meta-owned messaging platform says the change is designed to protect users' phone numbers from being automatically exposed in group chats or when contacting someone for the first time.
How Usernames Will Work
Instead of sharing a phone number, users will be able to pick a unique username to share with family, friends, or businesses. According to WhatsApp, there will be no public directory or suggestions, so people must know your exact username to contact you. This limits unwanted contact and enhances privacy.
Meta, which claims over three billion WhatsApp users, acknowledges that many may not get their first choice of handle due to the sheer number of users. The company will gradually roll out username reservations worldwide over the coming months, notifying users in each country when the feature becomes available.
Special Provisions for Businesses and Creators
Creators, small businesses, and organizations will be allowed to claim WhatsApp usernames that they already use on fellow Meta products Facebook or Instagram. Once fully activated, WhatsApp users will be able to connect after exchanging usernames only, with options to block or report unwanted messages remaining available.
Usernames will be limited to 35 characters, with few restrictions. However, some high-profile officials and celebrities will have their names reserved, preventing others from using them. For instance, it's unlikely that users will be able to claim usernames like Donald Trump.
Privacy Implications and Expert Opinions
WhatsApp describes usernames as a privacy feature. The secure messaging app Signal introduced a similar service in 2024. However, experts caution that while usernames offer more privacy, WhatsApp's overall privacy record is questionable.
Carisa Veliz, a professor at Oxford University and author of Privacy is Power, said: “It is a good feature, but even if it does offer more privacy, remember WhatsApp is not a privacy-friendly app overall. It collects much metadata about users for marketing purposes. We have to remember that WhatsApp is owned by Meta - one of the tech companies with the worst track records when it comes to privacy.”
WhatsApp does not use the content of private chats for advertising, as those are protected by end-to-end encryption, meaning the firm cannot read message contents. However, it does use metadata—such as who you message and when—to support advertising.
Rollout and Additional Details
Once the feature is fully rolled out, individual phone numbers will no longer be visible on WhatsApp. There will be no public username directory, and phone numbers will still be required to have a WhatsApp account in the first place. The minimum age for using the platform is 13, and messaging apps will not be included in the UK's upcoming social media ban for under-16s, due to be implemented next year.
WhatsApp recently announced that Kunal Shah, founder of an Indian fintech start-up, will take over as head of the platform, with Will Cathcart stepping down after seven years in the role.
