WhatsApp to stop username changes that reveal a phone number

• WhatsApp will block username changes unless they are made before the feature is enabled
• Users will be able to change their phone number usernames for contact, without a catalog
• After the official feature goes live, users will be able to change their username or username at any time

WhatsApp is rolling out the usernames feature, which allows people to add contact information in words, rather than by phone number. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, has the ability to reserve usernames on WhatsApp in advance, before the feature officially launches.

The feature is meant to improve privacy for new contacts. WhatsApp says that there is no catalog for checking, and that the user will be able to see only a phone number.

In other words, if a person’s phone number is not shared, the contact can still be found. For new users, the feature will help them find the same name, and it will be necessary to enter the username.

WhatsApp also says that usernames may be created in advance. To do so, go to the You section, then to Account, and enter the new Username field. After saving the changes, the name will be available for use, and other users will not be able to access it.

Once the feature is enabled, users will be able to choose a username or a username at random from the list. The key is the following: before sharing the user’s phone number, the user must have a username and a key. It is also possible that the function may not be available to users with the same name.

Meta also said that usernames will be available to users for a limited time before the feature is launched. Recommend reviewing the list of available usernames that can be shared, and that can be used only once.

Details: June 30, 2026 at 2:40 p.m. PT and 2024 year (all WhatsApp feature announcements).

Tags: Technology