X Numbers escape the regulatory scrutiny WhatsApp usernames faced

On September 22, X launched X Numbers, eight-digit codes that let users message or call on XChat without a phone number. WhatsApp's usernames feature drew a MeitY notice within two days, but no public report shows a similar notice to X.

• X Numbers allow messaging and calls without a phone number, even with a closed inbox
• MeitY told WhatsApp on July 1 not to launch usernames in India
• XChat does not require a phone number, strengthening traceability concerns
• Messages via X Number skip message requests and land in the main inbox