India, June 30 -- WhatsApp has begun rolling out its username feature, allowing users to reserve a unique handle that can be used instead of their phone number when starting new conversations.

The feature is being introduced in phases, meaning it may not be available to all users immediately.

The platform said it will notify users through the app once the feature becomes available in their country.

If the feature is available on your account, follow these steps:

If your preferred username has already been taken, WhatsApp will suggest alternative unique usernames through its built-in username generator.

WhatsApp said usernames are being rolled out gradually over the coming months. As a result, not everyone will see the option immediat...