Overview
- WhatsApp began a phased global reservation process on June 29 so users running the latest app can claim unique usernames before a wider rollout later in 2026.
- Usernames are optional and, when enabled, let people start new chats without automatically revealing their phone number to the other party.
- There will be no public username directory so first‑time contacts must know the exact handle to reach someone, and WhatsApp offers a built‑in username generator to suggest alternatives.
- An optional username key adds a second credential that first‑time contacts must provide to message a user and can be reset to block new username‑based requests.
- Phone numbers remain required for account creation, WhatsApp will hold back some high‑profile names and use abuse‑detection tools to limit impersonation and spam.