WhatsApp adds optional username feature to hide phone numbers

Meta-owned WhatsApp has introduced an optional username system that lets users create a unique @‑handle and keep their phone number private. The feature, rolled out globally, can be reserved now through Settings → Account → Username on the mobile app; it is not yet available on WhatsApp Web or Desktop. Users may also set a four‑digit PIN as an extra security layer for their username. The username can be linked to an Instagram account, and once active, contacts who do not have the user’s number saved will see the @‑handle instead. The change is part of WhatsApp’s broader move toward device‑agnostic messaging, allowing the same account to be used on multiple phones, iPads, and other platforms.