Highlights
- WhatsApp will let users reserve usernames linked to their Instagram and Facebook accounts.
- To claim a username, users must verify ownership through Meta’s Accounts Centre before it’s officially linked to their WhatsApp profile.
- The feature is still in development but expected to launch globally within a year, ahead of Meta’s 2026 compliance deadline.
Caption – (Photo by Amanz on Unsplash)
We have already reported that WhatsApp is working on a new username feature. Now, it appears the Meta-owned messaging platform will allow users to reserve usernames connected to their Instagram and Facebook accounts. This move is part of Meta’s broader plan to integrate its social platforms more deeply and simplify identity management across its ecosystem. Here’s what we know.
WhatsApp’s Upcoming Usernames Feature
As per a report from trusted feature tracker WABetaInfo, the option to use the same usernames as Facebook and Instagram was spotted in WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.25.34.3. The update has been marked as compatible, though the feature is still in development and not yet accessible to the public.
According to the shared screenshots, WhatsApp will include a Username option under the Profile section in the app’s settings. This feature will allow users to reserve their desired usernames, potentially the same ones they already use on Meta-owned platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
However, before confirming a username, users will need to verify their identity via Meta’s Accounts Centre to ensure that the handle truly belongs to them. Once the verification is complete, the selected username will be officially linked to their WhatsApp account.
Those who do not already own their preferred username on Facebook or Instagram may have to wait until WhatsApp fully rolls out its username system, the report adds.
Why Does It Matter?
WABetaInfo report notes that having a unified username across Meta’s three major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp will help both individuals and businesses maintain a consistent online identity. It will also make it easier for users to be discovered and for brands to protect their digital presence across Meta apps.
Currently, the feature remains under development and is not available even for beta testers enrolled through the Google Play Beta Programme. However, a wider testing phase is expected to follow in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, WhatsApp has officially confirmed that the username system will be fully implemented before Meta’s 2026 compliance deadline. This means the feature could roll out globally within the next year or so.
FAQs
Q1. What is WhatsApp’s new username feature?
Answer. WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users to reserve usernames, potentially the same ones they use on Instagram and Facebook, for a unified identity across Meta platforms.
Q2. How will users verify their usernames on WhatsApp?
Answer. To reserve a username, users must verify their identity through Meta’s Accounts Centre to confirm ownership before linking it to their WhatsApp profile.
Q3. When will the WhatsApp username feature be available to the public?
Answer. The feature is still under development and not yet available, but Meta plans to roll it out globally before its 2026 compliance deadline.