WhatsApp to Let Users Reserve Unique Usernames

WhatsApp is once again expanding its privacy and personalization features with a brand-new addition the ability to reserve your favorite username. This upcoming feature will soon allow users to choose and secure a unique username for their WhatsApp account, much like what we’ve already seen on social platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), or Telegram. Interestingly, this step also parallels India's new chat app Arattai Messenger, which already enables users to create custom usernames rather than relying solely on phone numbers.

So far, WhatsApp has always used phone numbers as the main method to associate users. That is set to change. With this new update, WhatsApp wants to make it more private and secure to chat by enabling users to chat using their usernames rather than exposing their phone numbers. This is a significant progress for privacy-conscious users, particularly those who do not want to expose their contact number in public groups or online forums.

This would allow you to message someone immediately by entering their username as you do on Telegram or Instagram without ever having to swap phone numbers. For creators, businesses, and everyday users alike, this can unlock new, secure ways to connect without losing anonymity.

Image via WABetaInfo

Along with usernames, WhatsApp is also introducing a new security feature known as the Username Key. With this feature, individuals can send you messages only if they possess both your username and your unique key. It basically introduces a level of extra privacy control, enabling users to determine with whom they can initiate contact.

If you activate the Username Key, random users will not be able to spam or reach you even if they have your username. This username and key combination virtually functions like a digital lock adding security from unwanted messages or scams. To ensure that all users have an equal opportunity to choose their preferred name, WhatsApp is also implementing a username reservation feature. This feature will enable users to reserve their desired usernames before the feature is released in full.

If not for this step, early adopters could take all the cool or in-demand usernames as soon as the update is released. The reservation system stops that from occurring allowing all users equal access to the name they desire. It's a savvy move that encourages fairness and inclusivity as WhatsApp evolves into this new phase of identity-based messaging.

Currently, the username reservation feature is still under development and available only to a limited number of beta testers. It was recently spotted in WhatsApp beta version 2.25.28.12 for Android, indicating that the company is actively testing the system before rolling it out globally.

Although the complete username functionality will be rolled out step by step to confirm smooth running and correct errors, the reservation facility can roll out much earlier. This will help users reserve their preferred usernames in advance before the worldwide rollout.

What's so fascinating about this move is the way WhatsApp seems to be emulating India's very own Arattai Messenger. The Zoho-funded chat platform already has similar features enabling users to come up with unique usernames and chat sans phone numbers.

As Arattai is increasingly popular in India for emphasizing privacy, control of the user, and data protection, it appears WhatsApp is taking a similar path to remain relevant in the messaging space. This indicates a sharp recognition of the way Indian apps such as Arattai are catching up with global players through new features.

WhatsApp's new username and reservation system is a big improvement in further securing the platform, making it more private and easier to use. With the new Username Key and reservation system, users can look forward to more control over how they engage with others without risking safety.

Although the feature remains in testing, it's already apparent that WhatsApp is getting ready for a major shift one that takes cues cleverly from platforms such as Arattai Messenger and adds a higher degree of personalization to one of the globe's most popular messaging applications. Stay tuned, since the rollout of the username reservation should be occurring soon, and we'll keep you informed as WhatsApp continues to redefine how the world gets connected.