WhatsApp is introducing usernames in 2026, a major update designed to improve user privacy by allowing people to communicate without sharing their phone numbers. Instead of displaying a phone number, WhatsApp users will be identified by a unique username in both one-to-one conversations and group chats.
While this change enhances privacy for individuals, it also brings important implications for businesses and partners that use the WhatsApp Business Platform. This article explains why usernames are being introduced, how they work, and what businesses should do to prepare.
Why Is WhatsApp Launching Usernames?
WhatsApp continues to focus on building tools that protect people’s privacy and give them greater control over their messaging experience. With usernames:
- Users can message others without exposing their phone numbers
- Phone number privacy is supported in both private and group conversations
- Users are identified by a unique, user-chosen username
Usernames have been one of WhatsApp’s most requested features, and their introduction marks a significant shift toward privacy-first communication.
What This Means for Businesses and Partners
To support usernames, WhatsApp is introducing Business-Scoped User IDs (BSUIDs). These new identifiers are critical for businesses to continue communicating with users who choose to hide their phone numbers.
What businesses need to do to prepare
Partners and directly integrated businesses must adopt BSUIDs to ensure seamless messaging.
1. Update Webhook Integrations
Update WhatsApp Business Platform webhooks to support BSUIDs. These will be sent in a new user_id field through existing messaging webhooks.
2. Support Multiple User Identifiers
Systems must be able to handle:
- Phone numbers for users who have not adopted usernames
- BSUIDs for users who have enabled phone number privacy
Both identifiers should be mapped correctly to customer records in your CRM or internal database.
3. Update CRM and Internal Systems
Any system that relies on user identification should be updated to:
- Store and process BSUIDs
- Link BSUIDs to existing customer records
- Support downstream tools such as campaigns, analytics, billing, and automation workflows
4. Review Bots and Conversation Journeys (If Phone Numbers Are Required)
If your business still requires phone numbers:
- Update bots or automated journeys to request them
- Handle cases where users choose not to share their phone number
- Adjust conversation flows to support these scenarios
When Will Businesses Receive a BSUID Instead of a Phone Number?
When a user adopts a username:
- Their phone number will no longer be visible in the WhatsApp app
- Phone numbers may not be sent in messaging webhooks
- A BSUID will be delivered in the new
user_idfield - The existing
wa_idfield may contain an empty string
Phone numbers may still be shared in limited cases, mainly for existing customer interactions. However, businesses are strongly encouraged to begin ingesting BSUIDs as early as possible to avoid losing conversation history or context.
Business Usernames vs Display Names: What’s the Difference?
Business Usernames
- Are unique and searchable
- Allow users to find a business by searching its exact username
- Follow strict formatting rules for length and allowed characters
- Provide a reliable way for customers to contact the correct business
Display Names
- Are not searchable
- Allow more flexibility in formatting
- Are used primarily for visual identification rather than discovery
Because users cannot search by display name, business usernames offer a clear advantage in discoverability and brand recognition on WhatsApp.
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp usernames represent a significant change in how identities are handled on the platform. While the shift improves privacy for users, businesses must ensure their systems are ready to support new identifiers, updated workflows, and revised messaging journeys.
By adopting BSUIDs early and updating internal systems now, businesses can ensure uninterrupted communication and be fully prepared for WhatsApp’s username rollout in 2026.
