WhatsApp's New Username Feature: Enhancing Privacy and User Experience

WhatsApp is testing a new username feature that allows users to connect without sharing their phone numbers. This feature includes a unique username key, a 4-digit security code that enhances privacy by preventing unsolicited messages. Users can reserve their usernames and set up the username key easily through the app's settings. This added layer of security is crucial as it helps mitigate spam and scams. The feature is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year, providing users with a safer messaging experience. Learn how to set up and manage your username key to protect your privacy effectively.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 1, 2026, 19:14 IST

Introduction to WhatsApp's Username Feature

WhatsApp is consistently rolling out new features aimed at improving user experience and safeguarding privacy. One of the latest additions currently under testing is the "username" feature, which allows users to connect with others using a unique name while keeping their phone numbers confidential.

Reserving Your Username

Users can now reserve their usernames as part of this feature. When creating a username, it’s crucial to activate the "username key" for enhanced privacy. Let’s delve into what this feature entails and its significance.

Understanding the Username Key

What is the WhatsApp Username Key?
The username key is a 4-digit security code designed to protect your phone number. With this new feature, your number remains secure, and individuals who know your username cannot message you directly unless they have this code.

To reach out to you, they must input this 4-digit code along with your username.

Importance of Enabling the Username Key

Why should you enable it?
Meta has the username key feature turned off by default. If you don’t activate it, anyone could message you just by knowing your username, which heightens the risk of spam or scams. Activating the username key adds an extra layer of privacy, ensuring that only those you share the key with can contact you.

Setting Up Your Username Key

How to set the WhatsApp Username Key?
To enable the username key, you first need to reserve your username. The process is straightforward:

Open WhatsApp on your device.
Tap the three dots in the upper right corner and navigate to Settings.
Select the 'Account' section and then the 'Username' option. If you haven't created a username yet, reserve your desired username here first.

Next, click on the 'Contact me by username' option below. Choose "People who know my key" and then select "Username Key."
WhatsApp will present you with a selection of secure codes; pick one that you prefer and save it.

Note: You cannot create any random 4-digit number; you must select from the secure codes provided by WhatsApp.

Changing Your Username Key

How to change the Username Key?
If you believe that too many people know your key, you can change it anytime to protect your privacy:

Go to Settings > Account > Username > Contact me by username > Username Key.
Click on "Get a different Key" below the current key.
WhatsApp will show you a new code, which you can update by clicking "Save."

Availability of the Feature

When will this feature be available?
At present, users can only reserve their username and key. This feature is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year, providing a robust security layer that will significantly reduce unwanted contact from strangers.