WhatsApp introduces username feature – how to create it

Whats App has announced the introduction of usernames, a new feature designed to allow users to connect without revealing their phone numbers. The company has begun opening username reservations ahead of the feature’s broader rollout later this year. According to the company, early reservations are intended to give users a better chance of securing the username they want before the feature becomes widely available. With more than three billion users on the platform, Whats App said many names are already shared by multiple people, making advance reservations an important step in the process. The company also noted that usernames are intended to be unique and can be kept private, allowing users to share them only with people they choose. To assist those who are unsure what to select, WhatsApp is offering a username generator that can suggest available options. Meanwhile, creators, businesses and organizations will have the ability to claim the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook to maintain a consistent online identity. The company said the feature has been developed with privacy in mind. There will be no public directory or username suggestions, meaning people will need to know a user’s exact username before making first contact. An optional username key will also be available to give users additional control over who can message them. Once the feature launches, users who enable usernames will no longer have their phone numbers displayed when contacting a person or business for the first time. How to Generate Username? Starting this week, users with the latest version of the app can reserve a preferred username by navigating to Settings > Account > Username. A unique username can only be used by one person. When creating your username, the app will let you know if the username is available or not. WhatsApp said usernames will be introduced gradually over the coming months, with users notified when the feature becomes available in their c