WhatsApp’s Username Rollout Hits a Snag in India
- Nishadil
- July 07, 2026
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India Gives Meta Three Extra Days, Delaying WhatsApp’s New Username Feature
WhatsApp’s much‑talked‑about username option is on hold in India after the government asked Meta for more clarification, granting the tech giant a three‑day extension.
WhatsApp has been buzzing about a fresh way to connect – the ability to set a public username that people can use instead of sharing phone numbers. It sounds simple, even handy, but in India the feature isn’t going live just yet.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) asked Meta for a deeper look at the policy behind these usernames. Regulators are keen to ensure that the new tool doesn’t open doors to spam, privacy breaches or unwanted marketing messages. In response, the government gave Meta a three‑day window to reply with the needed details.
Because of that deadline, the rollout that was slated for early June has been put on pause. Meta’s official spokesperson confirmed the delay, noting that they are working with the Indian authorities to address the concerns raised. "We are committed to compliance and user safety," the statement read.
For everyday users, the hold‑up means you’ll still have to rely on the traditional phone‑number method to find friends or start chats. The username feature, which lets you pick a handle like @johnDoe, was meant to make it easier to connect across borders without swapping numbers.
Industry watchers say the move reflects a broader trend: governments worldwide are tightening scrutiny over how big‑tech platforms handle personal data and user interaction. India, with its massive user base – over 400 million WhatsApp users – is especially vigilant.
Meta has hinted that once the clarification is submitted and approved, the username option could roll out in India within weeks. Until then, the feature remains in limbo, reminding us that even the sleekest tech updates must first clear the regulatory maze.
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