How to reserve your WhatsApp username?

A few days ago, Meta announced the introduction of the Username feature for WhatsApp. With this feature, usernames will replace phone numbers for connecting with other users helping people keep their personal phone numbers more private.

The feature has not yet been fully activated and is expected to roll out globally in the coming months. However, the option to reserve a username is already available allowing users to secure their preferred name or username in advance.

If you have not reserved your username yet, it is a good idea to do so soon otherwise, your preferred username may be claimed by someone else. Below is a guide on how to reserve your WhatsApp username.

Please note that usernames can only be reserved through the WhatsApp mobile app. Once the username feature becomes available on your account, WhatsApp will notify you.

How to reserve username on iPhone?

1. Open WhatsApp.
2. Tap the You tab at the bottom of the screen.
3. Open your Profile.
4. Tap Create Username or Reserve Username.
5. Enter your preferred username and save it.

How to reserve username on Android?

1. Open WhatsApp.
2. Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Go to Settings.
4. Tap your Profile.
5. Select Create Username or Reserve Username.
6. Choose your preferred username and save it.

Like other social media platforms, every WhatsApp username must be unique. If your desired username has already been taken, you will need to choose another one. After reserving a username, you can change or delete it. If you delete it, the username will become available for someone else to claim after 14 days.

Meta has not yet specified how many times a user can change their username but it has indicated that there will be a limit. If you do not want to create a new username, you will also be able to use the same username that you already have on Facebook or Instagram. Finally, every WhatsApp username must contain between 3 and 35 characters.