Meta is preparing to introduce one of the most requested features for WhatsApp — the ability to create and use usernames. Until now, WhatsApp has relied entirely on phone numbers for identification, but that’s about to change as Meta moves closer to launching a username system for both Android and iOS users.
WhatsApp Username Reservation System
WhatsApp has unveiled a new system of reserving usernames with the latest beta- releases of the application on both iOS and Android. This will enable users to pre-verify and book their desired usernames to be used before the entire rollout is carried out. It makes sure that the users who are early adopters can claim the names they desire before others can claim them, just like how social networks like Instagram and Telegram allow users to claim usernames.
WABetaInfo states that this reservation system is already underdevelopment and it will be released as a feature of early-access. Upon its release, users will be allowed to secure their distinctive usernames, which comply with the safety and formatting standards of WhatsApp.
Why Is Meta Adding Usernames?
Although an ease of use, namely the fact that users do not need to provide their phone numbers but only use a username, will be valued by many users, the issue of privacy and security is what Meta is highlighting as the primary cause of the change. According to the company, usernames will enable individuals to chat without disclosing their telephone numbers, an added protection, in particular, when communicating with strangers or joining groups.
Meta describes the update as:
“Get more protection for your phone number. People who don’t have your number saved will see your username instead.”
Username Rules and Requirements
When the feature launches, WhatsApp will enforce several rules for username creation:
- Usernames can only include lowercase letters, numbers, underscores (_), and periods (.).
- They cannot begin or end with a period.
- No domain-style or misleading formats are allowed.
- Each username must be unique and between 3 to 30 characters long.
Reserved usernames will be linked directly to a user’s WhatsApp account to ensure exclusive ownership.
When Will It Launch?
Although WhatsApp has not announced an exact release date for the username reservation feature, its appearance in multiple beta versions suggests the rollout is not far away. However, as with many WhatsApp updates, timelines can vary — some features move quickly from testing to release, while others take months.
Once available, this feature could mark one of the biggest privacy-focused changes WhatsApp has made in years, giving users greater control over their identity and how they connect online.
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