X has introduced X Numbers, a new way for users to be contacted on its messaging service without sharing their phone number or requiring mutual follows. Launched on Tuesday, this feature gives XChat users a private code they can share to enable messaging and calls. Conversations started this way go directly to the inbox instead of message requests. X states an X Number is distinct from a phone number and also separate from the safety numbers used for verifying identities in encrypted chats.
This new feature is optional, allowing users to disable or refresh their X Number at any time. Refreshing generates a new code, preventing new contacts with the old code from reaching them. X will notify users when they are contacted via this code. While existing message contacts may see a user's X Number, a "Hide from others" setting can prevent this. Users can enable the feature by opening Chat, entering their PIN if needed, then selecting "Number" from the inbox dropdown menu.