How to Find and Contact People on WhatsApp Using Usernames

WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that allows users to find and contact people through usernames instead of phone numbers, making it easier to connect while offering greater privacy. The feature is currently being rolled out to a limited number of users and is not yet available worldwide, according to WABetaInfo.

The new system lets users start conversations by searching for a person’s unique WhatsApp username. Instead of asking someone to share their phone number, users will only need the exact username to begin a chat.

However, WhatsApp’s username search works differently from many social media platforms. Users must enter the complete username exactly as it was created. Partial usernames or incomplete searches will not return any matching results. If the username is correct and available, the person’s profile will appear in the search results.

How to Find and Contact People on WhatsApp Using Usernames

To start a conversation, open WhatsApp and go to the Chats tab. Tap the button to create a new chat, then use the search bar to enter the person’s full username. Once WhatsApp finds the matching profile, tap on it to open the conversation and begin chatting.

This feature is designed for contacting both individual users and businesses that have chosen to create a WhatsApp username.

What is a username key?

According to WABetaInfo, some users may choose to enable an extra privacy feature called a username key. This optional security measure adds another layer of protection by preventing anyone from messaging the account through its username without entering the correct key.

If the person you are trying to contact has enabled a username key, WhatsApp will ask you to enter it before allowing you to start the conversation. After entering the correct key, tap Next to continue.

Without the username key, users will not be able to contact that account through its username. In such cases, the key must be obtained directly from the account owner through another communication method.

What you’ll see in the chat

Once a conversation is opened through a username, the user’s username will appear at the top of the chat. If their phone number is not saved in your contacts, it will not be displayed during the conversation.

Users who already have someone’s phone number saved can also view that person’s username if they have created one.

Feature still rolling out

The username feature is currently being released in phases, meaning it is not yet available to everyone. While the broader rollout is still underway, WhatsApp has already started allowing some users to reserve their preferred usernames in preparation for a wider launch.

The feature is expected to improve privacy by reducing the need to exchange phone numbers when communicating with new people, businesses, or online communities. It also brings WhatsApp closer to other messaging platforms that use usernames as the primary way to connect.

The availability of the feature depends on the user’s account and app version. As the rollout continues, more WhatsApp users are expected to gain access to username-based messaging in the coming months.

See also: WhatsApp Is Developing Its Own Cloud Backup Service for iPhone Users