WhatsApp: Spotify in status and usernames from 2026

WhatsApp plans to introduce usernames starting in 2026. It will be one of the most significant changes since the messenger service was launched.

Meta has now released initial details regarding the technical implementation and timeline. Instead of being reachable solely via phone numbers, users will also be reachable via freely chosen usernames. A new system is being introduced for businesses: the so-called "Business-Scoped User ID" (BSUID) allows them to uniquely identify and contact WhatsApp users – even without access to their phone number.

The new system complies with data protection regulations.

According to Meta, the new identification system will be integrated into all webhooks, in compliance with data protection regulations, and will be supported across all future API versions. Developers must therefore adapt their systems by June 2026 to communicate using usernames instead of phone numbers. A username reservation function will be introduced even before the official launch.

In parallel, WhatsApp is also expanding the design options in the "Status" section. Users will soon be able to share songs or podcasts with animated text directly from Spotify. This feature is currently in beta.

Apple Music will soon catch up to Spotify in terms of status.

The feature allows users to select individual lyrics and publish them as status updates with an attractive layout, similar to Instagram Stories. A comparable integration for Apple Music is planned for iOS 26.2.

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