WhatsApp is allowing users to reserve a username as an alternative to exchanging phone numbers to chat on the messaging service.
The new feature will be rolled out globally to the platform's three billion users over the coming months, WhatsApp said.
Some users may already have seen a prompt in the app, as the platform has begun asking users to reserve a username, although doing so will not be compulsory.
The company said users would be able to change or remove their usernames at any time.
Alice Newton-Rex, WhatsApp's Head of Product, said users had expressed concerns about sharing their phone numbers, particularly in group chats.
Usernames will be limited to 35 characters and subject to few restrictions, although certain names linked to high-profile officials and celebrities will be reserved.
So no, you won't be able to pretend to be David Beckham.
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