WhatsApp is rolling out usernames so people can message you without knowing your phone number. Here's what we know, how it works, and what it means for service businesses.
WhatsApp is finally adding usernames.
Instead of sharing your phone number with every customer, you'll be able to share a username like @yourbusiness. People can search for it and message you directly. No phone number required.
This is a big deal for businesses. Here's what we know so far.
Right now, to message someone on WhatsApp, you need their phone number. That's been true since the app launched in 2009.
Usernames change that.
With the new feature, you can:
@miamihairsalon)Think of it like Instagram handles, but for WhatsApp.
Based on what's been tested in beta versions, here's the flow:
Your username appears in your profile and can be shared publicly.
When someone wants to message you:
@yourbusiness)If you don't have each other's numbers saved, your phone number stays hidden. They just see your username.
This is the key part: your phone number remains private unless both parties have each other saved in their contacts.
For businesses, this means:
WhatsApp hasn't released full details for business accounts yet, but here's what we know:
Username reservation is coming first. Businesses may be able to claim their preferred username before the feature fully launches. If you have a recognizable brand name, you'll want to reserve it early.
It works alongside the WhatsApp Business API. If you're using the API (through platforms like Replypop, WATI, or others), usernames should work with your existing setup. The username becomes another way for customers to find and message you. (If you're curious about API costs, see our WhatsApp API pricing breakdown.)
Channels already support usernames. If you've created a WhatsApp Channel (the broadcast feature), you can already set a username for it. Personal and business chat usernames are the next step.
If you run a salon, spa, clinic, or any service business, usernames solve a real problem.
Right now, to let customers message you on WhatsApp, you either:
Many small businesses just use their personal number. Which means customers have your personal phone number forever.
You can:
@yourbusiness on your business cardsCustomers message you through that username. Your actual phone number stays private. If you ever change numbers, your username stays the same.
And here's the key part: that username still connects to the same WhatsApp Business account. If you've connected your WhatsApp to Replypop, messages from your new username arrive in the same inbox where your AI handles bookings. Nothing changes on the backend. You just get a cleaner way for customers to find you.
The feature is still rolling out, but here's how to prepare:
Think about what username you want. Keep it:
Good examples:
@mikisnailstudio@downtownbarbershop@relaxspa_miamiCheck your WhatsApp settings periodically. The username option is rolling out to different users at different times. When you see it, claim your preferred username quickly. Popular names will go fast.
Once you have your username, update:
This is important: set up your WhatsApp Business integration before usernames launch.
When you connect your WhatsApp to Replypop:
Don't wait until usernames launch to figure out your WhatsApp setup. Get connected now, so when you claim @yourbusiness, it's already linked to your booking system.
Someone messages your username, your AI responds, the booking happens. The customer never needed to know your phone number. That's the future, and it's coming soon.
When will usernames be available?
WhatsApp is testing the feature in beta now (January 2026). There's no confirmed public launch date, but it's expected soon. Some users already have access to username reservation.
Will usernames replace phone numbers?
No. Phone numbers remain the primary way WhatsApp accounts work. Usernames are an additional option for sharing and discovery. You still need a phone number to create a WhatsApp account.
Can I change my username later?
Based on how similar features work on other platforms, you'll likely be able to change it. But your old username might become available for others to claim. Best to pick one you'll stick with.
What if someone takes the username I want?
First come, first served. If @yourbrandname is taken, you might need to add a location (@yourbrandname_miami) or variation. This is why claiming early matters.
Do usernames work with WhatsApp Business API?
Yes. The feature is designed to work with both the regular WhatsApp app and business accounts. If you're using the API through a platform like Replypop, usernames integrate with your existing setup. Messages arrive in the same inbox regardless of whether customers used your phone number or username to reach you.
Is this the same as WhatsApp Channels?
No. Channels are one-way broadcast feeds (like a newsletter). Usernames are for regular two-way conversations. Channels already support usernames for discovery; this extends that to regular chats.
WhatsApp usernames are part of a broader privacy push. Meta is giving users more control over who has their phone number and how they're discovered.
For businesses, this is mostly good news:
The main risk is username squatting. If you have a recognizable brand, someone else might try to claim your name. Watch for the feature and reserve your username as soon as it's available.
WhatsApp usernames are coming. Here's what to do:
The businesses that win will be the ones already set up when usernames go live. Your AI will be trained, your booking system will be ready, and your customers will find you at @yourbusiness instead of a random phone number.
Get your WhatsApp connected now. When usernames launch, you'll be ready. Customers message your username, your AI handles the conversation, bookings happen automatically.
Questions or feedback? Reach out anytime