Some WhatsApp users are unable to access the new Username feature despite updating to the latest version of the app, as the feature is being rolled out gradually to eligible accounts.
From an update issued by the feature managers, users who have received the update can access the feature by following the steps highlighted;
Open Settings, tap Account, then select Username and create your preferred username along with a unique username key.
“Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch the feature. It takes just a few seconds; make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp and then go to Settings > Account > Username,” WhatsApp explained.
However, for many users, the Username option does not appear even after installing the latest version of WhatsApp.
What to Do If the Username Option Is Missing
If the feature is unavailable, users should open Settings and navigate to the Accounts Center (Meta).
They should then confirm that their Facebook and Instagram accounts are linked.
After confirming the linked accounts, users should close the Accounts Center, reopen WhatsApp, and check the Account menu again.
The Username setup option should then appear automatically.
Also Read: WhatsApp Introduces Usernames, Letting Users Chat Without Sharing Phone Numbers
If the feature is still missing, users may need to wait until the rollout reaches their account, as WhatsApp is releasing the update in phases.
WhatsApp Confirms When Business Account Users Can Access the Username Feature
The app has confirmed that the new Username feature will also be available on the WhatsApp Business app.
Responding to a user on X, WhatsApp said the feature is being rolled out to WhatsApp Business users and may take a day or two to appear after updating the app.
“Yes, reservations are also available on the WhatsApp Business app. It may take a day or two for you to see it, so make sure you have the most up-to-date version of the app,” the response explained.
The company advised users to ensure they are running the latest version of WhatsApp Business while waiting for the feature to become available.
What the New Username Feature Does
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According to the issued update, the new Username feature allows users to create a unique identifier that can be shared instead of their phone number when connecting with others on the app.
The feature is designed to give users an additional way to identify themselves on the platform while reducing the need to share personal phone numbers during conversations.
“We’ve put multiple layers of defense in place: username keys limit who can reach you, we limit how many new people any account can contact, and our systems detect and block abuse patterns. If something feels off, report it in the app,” the update read in part.
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