### WhatsApp to Finally Align with Rivals on Usernames
Since its inception in 2009, WhatsApp has mainly depended on users’ phone numbers for account setup and contact linking. This method has set it apart from competitors like Telegram, which has offered username support as an alternative identification method for some time. However, WhatsApp is poised to launch a username feature, enabling users to establish unique identifiers that do not solely rely on phone numbers.
#### The Launch of Username Support
In June, reports from WABetaInfo indicated that WhatsApp was developing a way to integrate usernames into its platform. The code found in a TestFlight build suggested that the app was creating protocols for how usernames would operate. Important guidelines include:
– Usernames must not start with “www.” to avoid confusion with official websites.
– Each username is required to include at least one letter, forbidding usernames made entirely of numbers or symbols.
– Permitted characters consist of lowercase letters (a-z), numbers (0-9), periods, and underscores, ensuring a uniform format across all usernames.
#### Username Reservation Mechanism
Recently, WABetaInfo discovered a new feature within WhatsApp’s settings that allows users to claim their desired usernames in advance of the official launch. This forward-thinking step enables users to secure their chosen handles, reducing the likelihood of impersonation and guaranteeing that they can preserve their identity on the platform.
#### Upcoming Rollout and Anticipations
Although Meta, WhatsApp’s parent organization, has not yet made an official announcement regarding the username feature, the introduction of the name-reservation mechanism implies that the rollout may happen soon. Users are urged to stay attentive to updates as the feature moves through its development phases.
In conclusion, WhatsApp’s imminent username support signals a major transformation in how users can identify themselves on the platform, bringing it closer to competitors and improving user experience.
