WhatsApp is gearing up to introduce a major privacy enhancement — the ability for users to select a unique username, reducing reliance on phone numbers for identification. The feature, spotted by WABetaInfo in the latest iOS beta version, is currently under development and expected to roll out widely in the coming weeks.
Once implemented, this feature will allow users to communicate via usernames instead of exposing their personal mobile numbers, enhancing security and anonymity, especially when chatting with unknown contacts or in group settings.
The username feature is part of WhatsApp’s broader initiative to boost user privacy and identity control, reflecting the app's shift away from being solely tied to phone numbers.
According to reports, usernames will replace phone numbers as the primary method of contact for users who opt into the feature. This means you could initiate or receive messages without revealing your actual mobile number.
However, to maintain a consistent and secure naming convention, WhatsApp has laid down some rules for usernames:
Must include at least one alphabetical character (a–z)
Can contain numbers (0–9), periods (.), and underscores ( _ )
Cannot consist solely of numbers or symbols
Length must be between 3 to 30 characters
Usernames must be unique — no duplicates will be allowed
These limitations ensure usernames remain user-friendly and resistant to impersonation or misuse.
To avoid scams and confusion, WhatsApp has blacklisted certain formats:
Usernames cannot include domain names (e.g., ".com")
They must not start or end with a period
No consecutive periods are allowed (e.g., “john..doe” is invalid)
Additionally, users cannot claim usernames already saved in their contact list or ones in active use by someone else.
Once a user selects a valid username that meets all criteria, WhatsApp will display a confirmation screen. This screen includes a celebratory animation with confetti, confirming that the username has been successfully linked to the account.
After this confirmation, the username becomes the public identifier seen by those who don’t have your number saved — including new contacts and group participants. This provides a more private way to engage in conversations, especially in public or semi-private groups.
Transparency is a key part of the new feature. When a user updates or changes their username, WhatsApp will automatically generate a system message in any ongoing chats. This ensures participants are informed of the change in real time and prevents confusion over new usernames appearing unexpectedly.
The username will then replace the phone number display in all new and ongoing chats, making WhatsApp conversations more secure and anonymous than ever before.
The addition of usernames on WhatsApp is a significant move toward privacy-first communication. With growing concerns around digital identity exposure, WhatsApp’s username system mirrors features found in platforms like Telegram, where usernames provide a shield of anonymity.
As the feature rolls out in phases, users will gain more control over their personal information, making it safer to connect with new people or participate in large chat groups without revealing sensitive contact details.