Usernames coming to WhatsAppWhatsAppWhatsApp has just started rolling out an update which could change the app out of all recognition. The move is to replace phone numbers with unique usernames, and reservations are being taken now. ForbesiOS 26.5.2: Apple’s Unprecedented iPhone Update Beats Hackers EarlyBy David PhelanThe idea is that when you meet someone for the first time, and you want to connect with them on WhatsApp, right now you have to give them your number, which, as the company pointed out, can be just too much of a step. “A phone number is personal and it’s tied to so many parts of your life. Sometimes you just want to chat without handing over your digits,” it said in a blog post.Securing Your WhatsApp Profile Name EarlySo, starting this week, users will be able to reserve their own usernames, which will go live later this year when the feature is properly launched. Reservations are open now to allow everyone to find their own name in good time — there are 3 billion users on WhatsApp, after all. The company has a username generator to help you find something unique that people who want to contact you should know. MORE FOR YOUCombating Messaging ScamsIf you’ve ever received a scam message claiming to be from a family member who’s just changed their number, usernames will offer greater security.On the other hand, there are situations where you’ll want to match your username to other parts of your online presence. In the case of creators, small businesses and other organizations, WhatsApp is offering the option to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook name. How To Claim Your WhatsApp UsernameTo reserve your username, you need to have the latest version of WhatsApp. To check that on an iPhone, open the App Store app and long-press on your Apple Account icon at the top right. This will open a page which includes App Updates. To be sure you see the latest updates, swipe down on the page. For Android users, go to the Play Store, type in WhatsApp Messenger and if there’s an option to Update, take it. When you next open the app, on an iPhone go to the You tab, then Account and then choose Username. For Android, go to Settings, found in the three vertical dots in the top right corner, then Account, then Username.It’s worth noting that the feature is being rolled out, so if you can’t see it, don’t panic — I don’t have the option just yet. But the fact that WhatsApp is rolling out reservations is a change many will welcome. ForbesSony’s New Wearable Air Conditioner Arrives In U.S. To Beat Summer HeatwavesBy David Phelan