WhatsApp Clarifies Username Feature As Centre Seeks Rollout Delay

The messaging platform WhatsApp answered several frequently asked questions on the microblogging platform X after users and the government raised concerns about the feature. In response, the government asked the company to delay its rollout in the country pending consultations.

The company mentioned that Meta does not require users to create usernames on Facebook or Instagram. It stated that it has reserved usernames for public figures, celebrities, government agencies, and Meta Verified accounts, so only those entities can claim them.

The company further dismissed claims circulating online that anyone could reserve popular usernames, clarifying that only the legitimate owners can claim well-known public-figure names and their variations.

Username reservations are here, as more and more people claim theirs, here’s answers to the top questions you’re asking ⬇️

Q: Are usernames mandatory?

A: Nope, they are optional.

Q: What if the username I want isn’t available?

A: There’s a few reasons you might not be able to…

— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) July 1, 2026

WhatsApp mentioned that when it launches the feature later this year, users will see information such as the sender’s country, whether the account is new, and whether they share common groups before deciding whether to reply to a message from an unknown user.

WhatsApp does not yet support usernames for messaging.

The company also stated that users cannot search for usernames, unlike phone numbers. Instead, users can enable an extra ‘username key’ that requires both the username and the key to initiate contact.

Earlier, the government directed WhatsApp’s global head, Kunal Shah, to explain the username feature within three days and to hold off on launching it until all government deliberations were finished.

Additionally, the Centre requested a detailed explanation of the new feature from Meta and directed the company to respond within three days.

The government has asked Meta to hold off on launching the ‘usernames’ feature in India until it concludes its deliberations.

WhatsApp clarifies that its upcoming, optional username feature includes multiple built-in security measures to prevent impersonation, scams, and unwanted contact before its rollout later this year.