For quite some time, there have been whispers that WhatsApp would introduce a feature to help users cut down on unwanted messages by allowing them to create a unique username. Now, it appears the messaging giant is moving closer to making this a reality. Latest reports suggest WhatsApp is actively testing a username reservation option on its Android app, letting users secure their desired handles before the full username functionality officially rolls out.
Reserving Your WhatsApp Username: What We Know
According to WABetaInfo, a reliable feature tracker, the ability to reserve usernames was discovered in WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.25.28.12. While this exciting option isn’t live for beta testers just yet, it signifies that Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, is actively developing it for a future app update.
This image shows where the username feature will appear in WhatsApp settings, under the Profile section.
The screenshot reveals that a ‘Username’ option will be conveniently located within the ‘Profile’ tab of your WhatsApp settings. Here, users will be able to select and reserve their preferred usernames.
This upcoming feature is a crucial step towards implementing a full username system on WhatsApp. It’s anticipated that this will also introduce a ‘username key’ option, designed to limit unwanted contact. Essentially, only individuals who possess both your username and this unique key would be able to send you messages, providing an added layer of privacy and control.
Given that new features are typically rolled out gradually, allowing users to reserve usernames early on ensures a fairer system. This way, you can claim your desired handle before others do, preventing frustration and ensuring you get the username you want as soon as the feature becomes widely available on your device.
WABetaInfo also highlighted some rules for creating these new usernames. For instance, usernames won’t be allowed to start with ‘www’ to prevent impersonation of official websites. Additionally, each username must contain at least one letter and can include numbers (0-9), periods, and underscores.
It’s important to note that WABetaInfo confirmed this username reservation option is still under development. It’s not yet accessible even to those enrolled in the Google Play Beta program. However, there’s a good chance it will be rolled out for broader testing in the coming weeks, giving more users the opportunity to try it out.