WhatsApp began rolling out a reservation system that lets users claim a unique handle before the platform launches full username‑based messaging. The feature replaces phone numbers as the primary identifier, letting people chat without swapping personal contact details. Users receive an in‑app notification when the option becomes available and can set a name between three and 35 characters. The process mirrors similar features on other messaging platforms.

With over 3 billion active accounts, WhatsApp says early reservations give everyone a chance to secure a handle that matters to them. Creators, small businesses and organizations may import an existing Instagram or Facebook username, provided it isn’t already taken. No public directory or discovery suggestions exist, so contacts must know the exact handle to initiate a chat. This move aligns with broader privacy trends.

When a username is active, WhatsApp hides the linked phone number on the first message to a person or business, adding a layer of privacy. An optional username key offers extra spam protection. The rollout will continue over the coming months, gradually expanding access until the entire user base can adopt handle‑based communication. Early adopters can already test the feature on Android and iOS.