• There will be an option to share a unique username instead of a phone number when communicating
• The feature could help enhance privacy and protect data

WhatsApp is preparing to launch a major update that could change the way communication works on the platform, with parent company Meta confirming that users will soon be able to create unique usernames, allowing them to interact with others without sharing their phone numbers

The company revealed in a document addressed to businesses a new system called BSUID (Business Specific User ID), which allows companies to communicate securely with users even if the phone number changes or is not shared

In the future, companies may be able to interact with customers entirely through usernames

Meta plans to roll out the feature gradually, giving companies until June 2026 to update their systems to support BSUID

Users will be able to reserve their preferred usernames before the full launch, expected in the first half of next year

They can continue using the app in the traditional way via phone numbers, or share a username if they wish

Experts note that adopting usernames will require technical adjustments by companies, such as updating databases and integrating the new IDs

However, Meta confirms that privacy protection and secure communication between users and businesses will remain a top priority