WhatsApp is rolling out usernames to keep phone numbers private. The feature gets installed later this year, however, users are able to start reserving their usernames now. This change marks a new level of privacy for WhatsApp users who want to keep their numbers private while still chatting and joining groups with new people.
Al Jazeera’s @emmawithrow examines why WhatsApp decided to add the new feature and how it will impact privacy for users going forward.
Published On 30 Jun 2026