WhatsApp to Roll Out Username System Similar to Telegram (2025 Update). In 2025, WhatsApp is gearing up to launch a groundbreaking feature the username system, allowing users to connect without revealing their phone numbers. This update, now under beta testing, could completely change how people interact on the platform.
If you’ve ever wished for Telegram-style privacy on WhatsApp, your wait might finally be over.
A Game-Changing Update for WhatsApp Users
For over a decade, WhatsApp users have relied on phone numbers to connect. While convenient, this system often raised privacy and security concerns, especially in large group chats, online business transactions, or public forums.
The new WhatsApp username feature aims to eliminate that worry by introducing an optional system where users can connect via usernames — no personal number required.
This move puts WhatsApp on par with Telegram, Signal, and Discord, platforms that already support private, username-based communication.
Why WhatsApp Usernames Matter in 2025
With over 2.8 billion active users, WhatsApp is the world’s most popular messaging app. Yet, privacy risks remain when users have to expose personal phone numbers in group chats or while chatting with strangers.
The new feature is designed to:
- Protect user identity in public or business interactions.
- Simplify networking without sharing personal data.
- Improve user control over privacy settings.
- Make WhatsApp more competitive in the secure messaging space.
Username Reservation Feature Spotted in Beta
According to reports from WABetaInfo, the latest WhatsApp beta for Android includes a new menu option titled “Username Reservation.”
This feature allows users to claim and lock in their preferred username before the global launch — much like Twitter handles or Telegram usernames.
Early reservation will help:
- Businesses secure brand-consistent names (e.g., @mybrand).
- Influencers maintain identity across platforms.
- Regular users avoid losing their desired usernames once the feature goes public.
Tip: Early beta users should monitor updates on WhatsApp Beta v2.25+ to grab their usernames before launch.
How WhatsApp Usernames Will Work
Although WhatsApp hasn’t released a full user guide yet, leaked beta information gives us a clear picture of how usernames will function.
Basic Username Rules
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Allowed Characters | Lowercase letters, numbers, underscores (_), and periods (.) |
| Not Allowed | “www” prefixes, special characters, or spaces |
| Minimum Length | Must include at least one letter |
| Visibility | Publicly visible but phone number remains private |
Users will be able to search contacts using usernames instead of phone numbers, similar to Telegram’s model. This design ensures easier connection while keeping personal details hidden.
Enhanced Privacy and Security — The Core Benefit
1. Anonymous Group Participation
Users joining large WhatsApp groups will no longer have to reveal their contact numbers. Only usernames will appear, ensuring anonymity.
2. Safer Business Interactions
Freelancers, sellers, and small business owners can now interact with clients without exposing their personal contact numbers — a major boost for WhatsApp Business users.
3. Protection from Spam and Data Leaks
The feature minimizes risks from spam calls or data scraping by keeping private numbers hidden from unknown contacts.
4. Aligned with Global Privacy Trends
With rising concerns over digital identity theft, WhatsApp’s username system matches GDPR and other international privacy standards.
How This Feature Compares to Telegram and Signal
Here’s a quick comparison between WhatsApp’s upcoming feature and similar systems on rival apps:
| Feature | WhatsApp (Upcoming) | Telegram | Signal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Username System | Yes (2025 rollout) | Yes | Yes |
| End-to-End Encryption | Always enabled | Optional in secret chats | Default |
| Number Sharing Required | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| Username Reservation | Beta active | Available | No |
| Ideal For | Privacy-focused users, businesses | Public channels, groups | Secure personal use |
Verdict: WhatsApp is catching up fast, combining Telegram’s flexibility with Signal’s privacy strength.
Business Impact — A Win for Entrepreneurs and Brands
The WhatsApp Business community stands to gain the most. With usernames, entrepreneurs can:
- Create branded communication IDs (e.g., @ShopNow_UAE)
- Handle customer inquiries securely
- Manage marketing campaigns without exposing personal numbers
- Integrate usernames with QR codes and chat links for easy access
This privacy-first approach could attract more small businesses to WhatsApp’s commerce ecosystem.
Expected Rollout Timeline
While Meta (WhatsApp’s parent company) hasn’t announced an official launch date, analysts predict a global release in early 2026, following successful beta testing through late 2025.
According to sources, the rollout will be gradual starting with Android, followed by iOS, and finally WhatsApp Web.
Users will receive a prompt inside the app’s Privacy Settings to “Choose Your Username” once available.
What It Means for Users
This update is more than a feature it’s a shift in how WhatsApp defines user identity.
Here’s what users can expect:
- No phone number exposure: Chat securely using usernames only.
- Faster connections: Add contacts instantly via username search.
- Custom identity: Choose memorable, brand-like usernames.
- Higher control: Decide who can see your username and profile info.
FAQs
1. What is the WhatsApp username system?
It’s a new privacy feature that allows users to chat using usernames instead of sharing phone numbers.
2. When will WhatsApp usernames be available?
The feature is currently in beta testing and is expected to roll out globally by early 2026.
3. Can I reserve my WhatsApp username early?
Yes. The beta version already includes a “username reservation” option, allowing users to secure their names before the public release.
4. Will usernames replace phone numbers entirely?
No, phone numbers will still be required for account setup, but usernames will act as a public communication handle.
5. Is this update available for WhatsApp Business accounts?
Yes, businesses can also register usernames to maintain brand consistency and protect owner privacy.
Conclusion
The upcoming WhatsApp username system (2025) marks one of the biggest privacy leaps in the app’s history. By replacing phone numbers with usernames, WhatsApp gives users more freedom, safety, and control bridging the gap between personal privacy and open communication.
