In this step-by-step tutorial, we show you how to keep your username unique on WhatsApp, edit it if you change your mind, and prevent people from sending you messages even if they have your username.
WhatsApp has started rolling out a username feature, in line with Telegram and other social media platforms.
After setting up your WhatsApp username, you can share it with someone, and they can send you a text, all without having to share your mobile number with them. But note that, like writing, WhatsApp only allows you to save your username; features such as messaging using a username will be introduced later.
Note: WhatsApp does not force you to reserve a username; you can choose to skip.
What username can you set
You have three options when setting up a WhatsApp username (steps below):
- Create a different username
- Use your Instagram username as your WhatsApp username
- Use your Facebook username as your WhatsApp username
Note: Some people (especially journalists and whistleblowers) talk a lot in X about not connecting their WhatsApp account to their Instagram or Facebook accounts to protect their privacy.
What username should you set
If you are a private person like me, I suggest you make a very random username, like ja56794mesinstead of James_smith. Or, you can create a simple username (like James_smith) and secure it with a key (mentioned below).
If you are a social person, you can use the same Instagram or Facebook username as your WhatsApp username.
Save your WhatsApp username on iPhone or Android
1) Update WhatsApp to the latest version from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
2) Open WhatsApp on your iPhone or Android phone and tap ‘Keep yours‘to’Usernames are coming soon‘ if you see it.
If you don’t see the above banner, open WhatsApp on your iPhone and tap You > Account.
If you are on an Android phone, open WhatsApp, press the button three dots icon up, and select Settings > Account.
3) Tap new Username option.
4) Now, choose to create a new username or use your Instagram or Facebook username:
- If you want to use the same username as your Instagram or Facebook account, press those buttons, connect your Instagram/Facebook account to WhatsApp, and the username will be pre-filled. Just confirm, and you’re good to go.
- If you choose to create a username, search for the username you want and, if found, tap Save it. If not, try other usernames.
Set a username key to add a second layer of privacy
After you reserve a username, you can choose how people can contact you via the username.
Your options will let you everyone who has your WhatsApp username (either guessed or mistyped) to text you.
Another option focuses more on privacy. Allows you to set four digits username key to add a barricade. After that, even if someone has your WhatsApp username, they won’t be able to message you until you share your four-digit key with them.
Yes, you can change these privacy settings later.
Edit or delete your username
You can change or delete your WhatsApp username. Just go back to WhatsApp account settings > Username and click the Organize button up. Then, click Change the username or Delete Username.
If you don’t find the option to set username
WhatsApp is adding this feature gradually. So, wait and keep coming back to WhatsApp Account settings regularly. You should get it soon.
Second, make sure you update the WhatsApp app on your iPhone and Android phone. Even if you recently installed an update, check the App Store or Google Play Store for the latest one. Sometimes, you may see a new update immediately after you install it.
Will spam texts increase using a username?
It is possible. If you have a simple username like Jamespeople can just message you the way they like on all other social networks.
But like other platforms that allow you to make your account private or block incoming messages, WhatsApp offers you a unique ‘username key’ feature that prevents others from sending messages if they don’t have your four-digit key, even if they have your username (explained above).
What do you think of the username feature? Will you be setting one up?
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