WhatsApp is finally rolling out username support after years of testing and user demand. Starting this week, users can reserve their preferred handles through the app's settings menu, though the actual username feature won't launch until later this year. The rollout will happen gradually by country, with WhatsApp notifying users when the option becomes available in their region.

The move addresses privacy concerns with WhatsApp's phone number requirement. With over three billion users, many people want to chat without sharing their personal digits, especially in large group conversations where phone numbers become visible to strangers. Users can also claim the same username they use on Facebook or Instagram for consistency across Meta's platforms.

When usernames do launch, there won't be a public directory or search function. Contacting someone for the first time will require knowing their exact username. An optional username key will provide spam protection, allowing users to control who can message them. A built-in username generator will help users find available options if they need assistance.

This privacy-focused update brings WhatsApp closer to competitors like Telegram and Signal that already offer username-based messaging. The staggered rollout suggests Meta wants to avoid server overload while testing the feature at scale.