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WhatsApp now lets you reserve usernames
WhatsApp has introduced a username feature that allows users to share profiles without revealing their phone numbers. Users can reserve usernames, which will roll out later this year, while still needing a phone number to create an account. The change aims to enhance privacy and control over personal information, emulating features from rival apps.
Key points
- WhatsApp announced usernames aimed at enhancing privacy.
- Users can reserve usernames from 3 to 35 characters.
- Top celebrities and organizations can claim reserved usernames.
- Usernames will not be searchable; only those who know it can message the user.
- WhatsApp requires a phone number to create an account.
- Feature inspired by rival apps like Telegram and Signal that offer similar privacy features.
Why it matters
- This feature represents a shift towards enhanced user privacy in digital communications, reflecting the broader 2025 IT Trend towards data protection.
- Usernames are aligned with the trend of users increasingly valuing anonymity and privacy on social platforms.
- Meta's development of this feature comes after leadership changes, indicating a strategic pivot towards more user-centric tools.
The introduction of usernames on WhatsApp marks a significant step in user privacy, aligning with current trends in technology where anonymity and user-controlled information are increasingly valued.