Pakyong, July 1 -- Meta-owned platform lets users reserve unique handles starting this week, with an optional four-digit code adding a layer of protection against unwanted contact.

WhatsApp has started allowing users to claim personal usernames. This change lets people begin new conversations on the app without sharing their phone number. The company opened reservations for the new handles this week and plans to roll out the feature more broadly throughout the year.

Why WhatsApp Is Making the Change

According to WhatsApp's product leadership, the goal is to lessen the awkwardness of sharing a phone number with someone you've just met, whether it's a classmate, a new neighbor, or a stranger at a social event. A username-based system off...