WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.34.3: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.34.3.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a feature that lets users reserve the same usernames they use on Facebook and Instagram, and it will be available in a future update!
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature: | Reserve username |
| Status: | Under development |
| Availability info: | This feature is currently in development and not yet available for beta testing. In the meantime, you can read this article for a sneak peek. |
| Previous news: | WhatsApp is Rolling Out Media Hub on Mac and Web to Easily Browse Recent Photos, Videos, and Files! |
WhatsApp Developing Feature to Reserve Usernames Early
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.29.14 update, we announced that a feature to let users reserve their usernames in advance of the upcoming rollout is under development. This functionality will allow users to secure their preferred identifiers before the official introduction of the full username system. By enabling users to reserve their usernames early, WhatsApp would have ensured that everyone has a fair opportunity to claim their desired names while preventing popular options from being taken too quickly once the feature officially launches.
The feature is still under development to ensure that, once released, it delivers a stable and bug-free experience for all users. In the meantime, WhatsApp is making some refinements to further optimize the reservation process and improve overall clarity. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.34.3 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that lets users reserve the same usernames they use on Facebook and Instagram!
Introducing WhatsApp's Upcoming Username Reservation Feature
WhatsApp is developing a new feature designed to let users and businesses secure their preferred usernames in advance of the full system launch, scheduled for release in a future update. This means users will be able to claim their desired identifiers before the feature becomes widely available. The tool aims to create a fair and organized process for reserving usernames while reducing competition once the rollout officially begins. For businesses, it represents an opportunity to protect brand identity early and maintain consistent digital presence across Meta platforms.
How the Username Reservation Process Works on WhatsApp
The reservation process is designed to be simple and secure, connecting seamlessly with Meta's existing ecosystem. Users will start by entering the username they already use on Instagram or Facebook, ensuring consistency across platforms. Once they submit the username, WhatsApp will guide them through a verification process confirming ownership via Meta's Accounts Center. Through this integration, WhatsApp ensures that only the rightful owner can reserve that specific handle.
After successful verification, WhatsApp will automatically associate the confirmed username with the user's account. This means the username will be officially reserved and protected within WhatsApp's system. If another user gains access to the full username feature before the reservation holder, they will not be able to claim that name. This guarantees that early reservations remain valid and secure for those who have already verified their ownership. As a result, the process helps maintain fairness while preventing impersonation or conflicts between users.
Username Reservation May Be Limited to Existing Instagram or Facebook Handles
It appears that the ability to reserve a WhatsApp username might be limited to users who already have that same username on Facebook or Instagram. This approach seems tailored for those seeking a consistent experience across Meta's family of platforms. This means that users who wish to reserve an entirely new username that is not linked to their existing social accounts may not be eligible to do so at this stage. This indicates that the reservation system may be primarily designed to preserve and unify digital identities already established through Meta's ecosystem.
Users who do not have the desired handle on Instagram or Facebook might have to wait until the complete username system is released to choose a new one. This could mean that new usernames will only be available once WhatsApp officially launches the full feature globally. Early access will likely focus on linking existing usernames across Meta platforms. This gradual approach allows WhatsApp to streamline the reservation process and ensure compatibility between accounts before the feature becomes widely available.
When Will WhatsApp Fully Roll Out Usernames?
According to WhatsApp's official update shared with businesses, the complete username system is expected to be implemented before Meta's 2026 compliance deadline. This timeline enables WhatsApp to test, refine, and integrate the feature across both personal and business accounts. The rollout will be gradual, starting with a limited group of users before expanding globally to ensure stability and scalability. Once live, usernames will simplify identification on WhatsApp while providing users and businesses with a consistent digital identity within the Meta ecosystem.
Release Timeline for Username Reservation on WhatsApp for Android
The feature that lets users reserve the same usernames they use on Facebook and Instagram is under active development, and it will be available in a future update. WhatsApp is refining this functionality to ensure a smooth and seamless experience ahead of the rollout. Like many experimental features, it will be available to a limited group of users for testing and feedback. Once the reservation system is launched, users will be able to secure their preferred usernames ahead of the full rollout, ensuring a smoother and more organized introduction of WhatsApp's new identity feature.
Stay Connected with WABetaInfo
Following WABetaInfo on X is the best way to stay informed about new features under development and those released to WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web, and Desktop. We love hearing your feedback, so let us know what you think! You can also explore our dedicated page to discover all our services, or join our Discord Server to chat with others, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest WABetaInfo announcements.