WhatsApp is preparing a significant change in the way users and companies identify themselves on the platform. Meta confirmed that by June 2026 the tool will adopt usernames in the @username format as a visible contact layer. Essa update allows interactions without the need to share personal phone number, especially in conversations with business accounts. The main objective involves reinforcing user data privacy while maintaining messaging, calling and customer service functionality.
The transition occurs gradually and optionally. Usuários will be able to create a unique identifier similar to that used on other social networks. Empresas that operate customer service via WhatsApp Business will need to adjust their internal systems to deal with the new model. Essa evolution seeks to balance the protection of personal information with the continuity of commercial operations on the platform.
- The phone number is still required to register the account on the application.
- @username serves as a public and searchable element to start conversations.
- A unique technical identifier per company limits cross-sharing of data.
How the new identification works on WhatsApp
Three layers of identification will coexist on the platform as of implementation. The phone number remains the basis for account creation and authentication. The username appears as the visible identification that contacts see and use to search for profiles. Já or Business Scope ID, or identifier with business scope, acts as a unique technical code generated for each relationship between user and specific company.
This structure prevents the same company from accessing data from user interactions with other brands. Especialistas in conversational CRM highlight that the change represents a transformation in the platform’s identification architecture. Antes, the phone number served as a central reference for tracking customers. Agora, systems need to incorporate the new identifiers to maintain service efficiency.
Privacy is highlighted in this update. By replacing the automatic exposure of the number with a technical identifier, Meta reduces risks associated with data leaks in commercial interactions. Relatórios about digital security incidents in 2025 recorded thousands of cases that affected hundreds of millions of people in different sectors. WhatsApp’s new approach aligns with global trends in protecting personal information.
Impact for companies using WhatsApp Business
Companies that use official Meta solutions tend to face fewer technical difficulties in the transition. Authorized providers are able to adapt service flows and preserve the history of conversations with customers. Já Operations that rely on unofficial integrations may encounter challenges identifying users, potentially leading to duplicate records or partial loss of previous context.
History maintenance represents a sensitive point for service teams. Quando the identifier changes, systems need to correctly map the new code to the customer profile to avoid fragmentation of accumulated information. Essa Consistency directly influences the quality of service provided and consumer satisfaction.
Surveys indicate that a large proportion of customers abandon a brand after repeated negative support experiences. Quickly adapting to new identifiers helps avoid interruptions that could harm relationships with the public. Empresas who work with a high volume of messages need to review their CRMs and automations to incorporate the Business Scope ID efficiently.
Technical adaptation required by June 2026
Developers and technology managers must update integrations with the WhatsApp API Business by the established deadline. The new technical identifier requires adjustments to webhooks, message flows and databases used for customer segmentation. Essa Preparation ensures that tools continue to recognize users even when the phone number is not shared.
Meta instructs commercial partners to carry out controlled tests before full implementation. Empresas verified with a blue badge will have priority when reserving usernames aligned with your brand. Essa measure protects corporate identities and makes it easier for customers to discover official profiles.
The @username search feature should also make initial contact with companies simpler. Clientes will be able to locate business accounts directly on the platform without relying on external links or QR codes in all cases. Essa facility can expand the reach of campaigns and support channels.
Details about privacy and data control
Users gain greater control over what they share in each interaction. The option to use only the username in conversations with companies reduces unnecessary exposure of the phone number. Essa functionality proves to be especially useful for those who make purchases, request assistance or participate in thematic groups without wanting to reveal complete personal data.
The enterprise-scope identifier ensures that data from a conversation is not automatically linked to other interactions by the same user. Essa Separation strengthens privacy and makes it difficult to undue crossing of information between different organizations. The change reflects the platform’s efforts to align with global data protection regulations.
Companies that already invest in good digital security practices tend to absorb the update better. The transition encourages the review of internal processes for handling customer information. Profissionais of technology highlight that early adaptation avoids operational problems and maintains public trust in the communication channel.
Maintenance of service and conversation history
Systems officially integrated with Meta can update customer mapping with less impact. The context of previous conversations remains accessible when the new identifier is correctly associated. Essa Continuity preserves the efficiency of chatbots, autoresponders and consumer behavior analytics.
Operations that rely on third-party solutions need to validate compatibility with ID Business Scope. Falhas In this recognition, they can generate duplication of profiles and require manual work to unify histories. The quality of service directly depends on the precision of these technical integrations.
WhatsApp remains focused on offering a fluid experience for both regular users and business accounts. The update represents an advance in the platform’s architecture without changing the basic functioning of messages and calls. Usuários continue to create accounts with phone numbers, but gain flexibility in the way they present themselves in interactions.
Next steps for users and companies
Meta plans to provide tools for reserving usernames in the early stages of implementation. Pessoas Individuals and legal entities will be able to choose unique identifiers respecting availability and format rules. Essa This step precedes the full use of the resource in conversations and calls.
Companies must monitor official communications about API updates and technical documentation. Testes in controlled environments help identify potential bottlenecks before the June 2026 deadline. Early preparation minimizes risks of disruption to customer service flows.
The novelty positions WhatsApp more aligned with platforms that already use usernames as an identification standard. Usuários and companies gain additional privacy and practicality options in daily digital communication.
