Username reservations open ahead of full launch

WhatsApp said it is opening reservations early because billions of users could create overlapping usernames.

“For over three billion people on WhatsApp a lot of names overlap, which is why we're opening reservations early so everyone has the opportunity to select the username that matters to them,” the company said.

Users will be able to create their username through the latest version of WhatsApp by going to: Settings > Account > Username.

The company said it will gradually roll out usernames in different countries over the coming months.

WhatsApp is also allowing some creators, small businesses and organisations to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames on WhatsApp to maintain a consistent online identity.

However, the company stressed that WhatsApp usernames are not intended to turn the platform into another social network.

“At its core, it's a privacy feature, not a social media handle — there's no directory to browse and no suggestions, so people need to know your exact username to contact you for the first time,” Meta said.

Are usernames a new advertising route?

The announcement comes as WhatsApp continues to expand beyond its traditional messaging service into business tools, payments and artificial intelligence features.

Gulf News asked WhatsApp whether usernames could eventually become a way to support advertising or revenue generation by allowing businesses to target users without accessing their phone numbers.

However, the messaging giant only said the feature "does not change WhatsApp’s business model."

“Usernames doesn't change how WhatsApp's business model works. Our focus remains on helping businesses connect with and serve their customers better,” the company said.

Meta pointed to its recently announced Meta Business Agent, an AI tool designed to allow businesses to respond to customers around the clock on WhatsApp and Messenger.

Dhanusha is a Chief Reporter at Gulf News in Dubai, with her finger firmly on the pulse of UAE, regional, and global aviation. She dives deep into how airlines and airports operate, expand, and embrace the latest tech. Known for her sharp eye for detail, Dhanusha makes complex topics like new aircraft, evolving travel trends, and aviation regulations easy to grasp. Lately, she's especially fascinated by the world of eVTOLs and flying cars. With nearly two decades in journalism, Dhanusha's covered a wide range, from health and education to the pandemic, local transport, and technology. When she's not tracking what's happening in the skies, she enjoys exploring social media trends, tech innovations, and anything that sparks reader curiosity. Outside of work, you'll find her immersed in electronic dance music, pop culture, movies, and video games.