WhatsApp is reportedly preparing to roll out one of its most-requested features — a username system. According to WABetaInfo, the messaging platform is working on a way for users to reserve their desired usernames before the feature is fully launched.
Username Reservation in the Works
The feature was spotted in the code for WhatsApp Beta for Android (version 2.25.28.12). While it’s still under development and not yet live, it’s expected to appear in a new ‘Username’ field within the Profile settings.
The idea behind the reservation system is simple: it gives users a chance to lock in their preferred username before the option becomes available to everyone. This should help avoid the usual scramble when new features go public.
Why Usernames Matter
The reservation option is believed to be part of a much bigger plan — a username system aimed at improving privacy. Reports suggest this may include something called a username key, which would work like a secondary PIN.
In practice, this would mean that someone trying to contact you would need both your username and your key, adding an extra layer of protection against spam or unwanted messages.
Rules for Choosing a Username
Leaked details also outline some of the rules WhatsApp is likely to enforce for usernames:
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Usernames cannot start with “www”
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Must contain at least one letter
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Can include numbers (0–9), periods, and underscores
At this point, the feature is still hidden and not available even to beta testers. However, wider testing could begin in the coming weeks, paving the way for a larger rollout.
