WhatsApp has announced the start of global reservations for usernames, a landmark privacy feature designed to protect users’ phone numbers.

A username allows people to connect on WhatsApp without revealing their personal number. Unlike social media handles, WhatsApp usernames are strictly privacy-focused: there’s no public directory, no suggestions, and people must know your exact username to reach you.

Reservations began on June 29, giving users the chance to secure their preferred username before the feature rolls out in-app later this year. Once available, WhatsApp will notify users directly in the app.

The Meta-owned platform explained that usernames should be unique and known only to those you want to connect with. For added security, users can set up a username key, an extra layer of protection requiring others to know the key before contacting you.

When fully activated, WhatsApp users will be able to chat by exchanging usernames only, with options to block or report unwanted messages still in place. Usernames will be capped at 35 characters, with restrictions on high-profile names to prevent impersonation.

WhatsApp’s Head of Product, Alice Newton-Rex, said: “The feature was inspired by user feedback: “We heard from people that they don’t always want to share their phone numbers, especially in group chats. This gives users control over how they choose to show up on WhatsApp.”

For creators, small businesses, and organizations, WhatsApp, which has over three billion users, will allow the option to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames for consistency across platforms.

To reserve a username, users simply go to Settings > Account > Username on the latest version of WhatsApp. The rollout will be gradual, with notifications sent as the feature becomes available in each country.