Whether you're transitioning to a different phone, getting a new SIM card, or simply curious, finding and changing your WhatsApp phone number is simple. Here's how you can do it.
How to Find Your WhatsApp Number
Finding the phone number linked to your WhatsApp account may be essential if you're switching to a new device or want to update it. Here's how you can find your number on WhatsApp:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Tap the three-dot icon in the top right corner and select Settings. If you have an iPhone, tap the Settings tab in the bottom right corner.
- Tap on your name at the top to view your registered phone number.
How to Change Your WhatsApp Number
Although it is possible to use your old WhatsApp number with a new SIM card, it's generally not recommended, especially if you're planning to abandon the old number. This is because it will make it impossible for you to receive the WhatsApp verification code when you reinstall WhatsApp or switch to a new phone.
Also, if your old number is assigned to someone else, they could potentially gain access to your WhatsApp account.
Fortunately, changing your WhatsApp phone number is easy and does not affect your messages or media. Here's how you can do it, depending on whether you are using the same phone or a different one.
Changing Your WhatsApp Number on the Same Phone
To change your number on the device you're currently using WhatsApp on, follow these steps:
- Put the new SIM card into your phone and open WhatsApp.
- Go to Settings > Account > Change number.
- Tap Next.
- Enter your old and new phone numbers with the correct country code and tap Next.
- Specify whether or not you want to notify your contacts about the new number, and then tap Done.
- Enter the code received via SMS on your new phone number to verify.
Changing Your WhatsApp Number on a New Phone
If you are switching to a new phone, you will first need to back up your WhatsApp data to your Google Drive or iCloud. Once you have done that, change your WhatsApp phone number on the old phone using the same steps mentioned above.
After that, install WhatsApp on your new phone, enter the new number, and restore the chat backup. WhatsApp will then automatically log you out of the old phone.
What Happens When You Change Your WhatsApp Number
Changing your WhatsApp phone number does not affect your existing messages, groups, or media. WhatsApp also preserves all your account information, settings, and blocked WhatsApp contacts.
Once you change your WhatsApp phone number, your old account is deleted. As a result, those who have your old number won’t be able to find you on WhatsApp. Your group chats will automatically receive a notification about your number change. Additionally, if you have chosen to notify your contacts about the number change, they will receive a message.
And that's pretty much it. Changing your WhatsApp phone number is a breeze and won't disrupt your conversations one bit. After the change, you can also link your new WhatsApp account to another phone or computer.