GUID V4 - Random-Based Identifier (Recommended)
GUID v4 is the most widely used random-based identifier. Learn about its structure, collision probability, advantages and why it is recommended for general-purpose applications.
How to Generate UUIDs in Flutter
Generate UUIDs in Flutter with the Dart uuid package for random v4 identifiers and for v7 identifiers when your package version exposes that API.
Recommendation: use UUID v4 for client-generated random IDs and UUID v7 when you want sortable identifiers across mobile and backend systems.
How to generate UUID v4 in Flutter
// pub add uuid
import 'package:uuid/uuid.dart';
const uuid = Uuid();
final id = uuid.v4();
print(id);How to generate UUID v7 in Flutter
// pub add uuid
import 'package:uuid/uuid.dart';
const uuid = Uuid();
final id = uuid.v7();
print(id);Native support notes
- Flutter apps typically rely on a Dart package rather than a platform-level built-in UUID generator.
- Keep your package version pinned when documenting UUID v7 support.
- Use the same UUID generation strategy on mobile and backend services when IDs cross system boundaries.
Practical notes
- UUID v4 is useful for offline-first mobile flows where random IDs are sufficient.
- UUID v7 is often easier to debug because creation time is reflected in sort order.
- See v4 vs v7 before standardizing on one format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most Flutter apps use a Dart package such as
uuid instead of a framework-built-in API.Choose v7 when your app benefits from time ordering, especially when syncing records to a backend or writing to ordered storage, and pin a package version that explicitly supports
uuid.v7().Learn more
These articles expand on related concepts, formats and practical considerations.