WhatsApp is preparing for its biggest change in years: usernames. It is an identification system that alternatives like Telegram have been using for years, and it gives you an extra layer of privacy when you want to contact someone.
Although This feature is not yet availablewe are going to explain to you what exactly it will be used for so that you understand its importance. And we will also tell you what it will be the process to reserve yours.
What are usernames
WhatsApp usernames are a unique identification method so other people can find you. The idea is that each person who uses WhatsApp can claim a name that no one else will have.
Currently, if you want to give your contact to another person so that they can write to you on WhatsApp, you have to give them your phone number. Then, by searching for that number, the other person will be able to find you and write to you. The username will be an alternative to the phone numberso they can also find you with him. It will also be used to log in to the account.
Each user may have a single name, but The first one to set it up will keep it.. This means that if you have a common name, like Maria, the name @maria may fly very quickly, and you will have to add other characters such as numbers or additional letters.
Here, remember that your username will be foreverso you will have to look for one that identifies you so that it is as personal as possible. Ideally, it would be easy to type so that they can find you, but in a service with billions of users this will end up being difficult.
How can you get your name
Image: Iván Linares
WhatsApp has not yet announced this feature or when it will arrive. However, The normal thing would be for it to reach the beta version first of the application. Therefore, if you want to be one of the first people to reserve your name, it is recommended sign up for the WhatsApp beta on your mobile. Then you will have to wait for the feature to launchsomething that seems increasingly closer.
Once WhatsApp starts allowing you to reserve the name, you will have to go to the application and enter the settings. Inside, you will have to tap on your profile photo at the top of the screen to enter your account settingswhere you configure information about yourself.
In them, you can currently edit your name, information, phone number or your links. The username field will also appear here when the function is launched. When you click on one, you will go to the process to create a username.
And that’s it. Now you will only have try names until you find one free. For example, if you type “pepito” you may see a red indicator saying that it is busy. Then, you will have to add characters or change letters until you find one that is free.
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