Washington, June 30 -- WhatsApp has begun rolling out reservations for its long-awaited optional username feature, allowing users to connect with new people without sharing their phone numbers.

The privacy-focused update, announced by the messaging platform, will be introduced gradually over the coming months, with users able to reserve their preferred usernames before the feature officially launches.

According to WhatsApp, the new system is designed to offer greater control over personal information when chatting with strangers, joining large group conversations, or communicating with businesses. Once the feature is enabled, users messaging a person or business for the first time will no longer have their phone number displayed.

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