WhatsApp Opens Username Reservations to Protect Your Number

WhatsApp announced it will begin reserving unique usernames, allowing users to be contacted by a handle rather than revealing their phone numbers. The feature is optional and includes a claims system for creators, small businesses, and organizations to reuse existing usernames from Instagram or Facebook. There will be no public directory or recommendation system, and users can opt to add an optional username key for extra protection on first contact. Reservations are rolling out now, with actual usernames becoming available gradually over the coming months and in-app notifications when a username is available in a user’s country.