WhatsApp introduces usernames so you can chat without sharing your phone number

WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that lets users chat without revealing their phone numbers. Instead, you will exchange unique usernames.

The Meta-owned platform said the change will reach its three billion account holders globally over the next few months. From Monday, users can start reserving a name through the app. It is not compulsory.

People can remove or change their usernames at any time. Once fully active, you only need a username to connect. Blocking and reporting unwanted messages will still be available.

Usernames are limited to 35 characters. There are few restrictions, but some high profile officials and celebrities will not have their names made available to others. So you probably will not see a user called Donald Trump.

WhatsApp described usernames as a privacy feature. Alice Newton-Rex, WhatsApp's head of product, said users told her they did not always want to share their phone numbers, especially in group chats. She said the feature gives users control over how they show up on the app.

Signal, a rival secure messaging app, introduced a similar service in 2024.

But not everyone is convinced. Carisa Veliz, a professor at Oxford University and author of Privacy is Power, said: 'It is a good feature, but even if it does offer more privacy, remember WhatsApp is not a privacy-friendly app overall. It collects much metadata about users for marketing purposes. We have to remember that WhatsApp is owned by Meta, one of the tech companies with the worst track records when it comes to privacy.'

WhatsApp does not use the content of private chats for advertising. Those chats are protected by end-to-end encryption, so the firm cannot read them. But it does use data like who you message and when to support advertising.

Once the feature is fully rolled out, individual phone numbers will no longer be visible on WhatsApp. There will be no public username directory. You still need a phone number to create a WhatsApp account in the first place.

The minimum age for using the platform is 13. Messaging apps will not be included in the UK's upcoming social media ban for under 16 year olds, which is due next year.