WhatsApp Usernames Set to Redefine Privacy with Business Scoped IDs

WhatsApp is about to make one of its biggest privacy-focused updates yet: bringing in usernames. The Meta-owned messaging platform has confirmed that usernames will be released next year, marking a new era in the world where people can connect without sharing their phone numbers. This doesn't just add a layer of privacy; it gives users more control over their digital identity.

WhatsApp says that the usernames are going to be optional and available for both individual users and businesses, which would mean a person can keep his or her phone number private while still chatting, making the app safer for those who interact with unknown contacts, online communities, or business accounts.

WhatsApp Usernames Coming Soon

Though WhatsApp has long identified its users based on their phone numbers, the new usernames feature may slowly change that foundation. In this, the approach of the company seems similar to Telegram, wherein users can connect with any other person easily using handles without having to share their mobile numbers.

While that was an early development in this direction-which we at AndroBranch had already reported in our previous blog, "WhatsApp to Let Users Reserve Unique Usernames"-that article revealed early code findings and beta tests showing that WhatsApp was preparing a system to let users reserve unique usernames. Now, it's official, and the platform is ready to move to the next step.

Business-Scoped User ID (BSUID)

Besides usernames, WhatsApp has also announced the rollout of a new system called Business-Scoped User ID-or BSUID for short-a feature targeted at businesses and developers. BSUID will enable a business to message users even when the phone number is not shared, guaranteeing smoother communications without compromising on user privacy.

The BSUID will show up in the message webhooks and will be compatible with the current and future WhatsApp API versions. In essence, it will serve as a secure digital identifier between businesses and users, replacing the dependency on phone numbers and allowing for more privacy-centric communication systems.

What This Means for Developers and Businesses

This change brings new responsibilities to developers and businesses that rely on the WhatsApp Business Platform or Cloud API. Systems will be updated to route messages and manage customer records based on BSUID instead of phone numbers.

This move signals a long-term direction in which WhatsApp would evolve into a username-first platform that totally reduces the reliance on phone numbers to establish someone's identity and, therefore, to message them. For businesses, this opens the way to safer, more controlled communication, ensuring compliance with privacy laws and increasing customer trust.

A Privacy-First Future for WhatsApp

WhatsApp introduces usernames and Business-Scoped User IDs to get ready for a privacy-first future. The features will make it easier for users to connect securely and also allow businesses to build meaningful interactions without compromising on the personal data of users. This mix of privacy, flexibility, and innovation cements WhatsApp's position at the top of secure global communication. Next year, usernames may be the new identity layer of WhatsApp-and maybe even a first step to a world where phone numbers aren't the definition of who we connect with.