WhatsApp to Launch Username Feature in 2026

WhatsApp is rolling out one of its most requested features: the ability to create usernames instead of relying solely on phone numbers for identification. The messaging platform has begun notifying business users about this significant update, which will be implemented in 2026. This change addresses long-standing privacy concerns by giving users an additional layer of separation between their online presence and real-world identity.

Privacy and Security Benefits

The shift from phone numbers to usernames offers substantial advantages for both individual users and businesses. By displaying usernames rather than phone numbers in one-to-one conversations and group chats, users can protect their privacy when connecting with unknown contacts or businesses. Phone numbers, currently used as primary identifiers, pose security risks by exposing personal contact information to anyone in the app. Usernames eliminate this vulnerability while still enabling seamless communication.

Business Implications and System Updates

For businesses, this feature enables brand-building opportunities similar to other social platforms. Companies can establish unique brand identities based on their business names rather than phone numbers, making it easier for customers to find and connect with them. However, businesses must prepare for these changes by updating their systems and workflows by June 2026. This includes integrating new business-scoped user IDs into existing platforms like CRMs and updating API versions to incorporate the new identifier as a webhook field.

While WhatsApp hasn’t announced an official launch date, the June 2026 deadline for system updates suggests the feature will roll out in the second half of 2026.