WhatsApp Launches Username Feature Soon With Privacy Protection, Meta Stock Up 2.24%

Meta announced on Monday that WhatsApp users can now reserve unique usernames ahead of the feature's full rollout later this year. The usernames will let users communicate with new contacts, classmates, or community members without exposing their personal phone numbers. There will be no public username directory, and users cannot browse for other accounts; someone must know the exact username to initiate contact.

Users can reserve usernames through WhatsApp Settings > Account > Username, with the feature rolling out gradually over the coming months via regional in-app notifications. Meta Platforms shares closed Monday up 2.24% and gained a further 0.16% in after-hours trading following the announcement.