Meta activates WhatsApp handles in phased rollout

KATHMANDU: Meta has begun activating handles for WhatsApp users in a phased rollout, enabling people to connect with new contacts without revealing personal mobile numbers. The rollout marks the second phase of WhatsApp’s privacy update after a reservation period launched in late June 2026.

Account holders who previously reserved a unique handle beginning with the @symbol, such as '@Name123', are receiving in-app notifications as their reserved handles go live. Once active, a handle serves as the primary contact identifier for first-time interactions, group conversations and public communications.

WhatsApp states on its website: "A username is an optional unique identifier you can choose for your WhatsApp account." While display names do not need to be unique, every handle must be unique to a single account on the platform.

The system draws a clear distinction between existing and new interactions. Individuals or businesses contacting an account for the first time see only the handle, keeping the account holder’s personal phone number hidden. Contacts who already have the user’s phone number saved in their address book continue to see the contact details as usual.

WhatsApp confirmed there is no public directory or search index for handles. The messaging app does not provide suggestions while typing, so individuals must know an exact handle to start a conversation.

To address concerns about potential fraud and online impersonation, Meta has added several security safeguards. Handles representing government entities, public figures and verified businesses are locked to prevent unauthorised claims. Account holders can set an optional 'username key', requiring new contacts to enter a security code alongside the handle to initiate a chat. Users can also claim matching handles across Meta platforms by linking WhatsApp to the same Accounts Center as Facebook or Instagram.

WhatsApp is expanding handle activations gradually across mobile devices through server-side batch updates. The company recommends keeping the app updated to the latest version as access continues to open for more users in the coming weeks.