Your Username on Instagram is not just a name but your identity, as it marks your presence on the platform and reflects your personal or brand persona. There are times when changing your Username is necessary, be it for rebranding, a change in personal interests, or simply seeking a fresh start.
While Instagram allows for this change, it’s important to distinguish between your display name and your Username. The display name is more flexible, as it is simply your profile name and not tied to your account’s URL. On the other hand, your Username is unique to you, must adhere to Instagram’s character limitations, and is linked to your URL.
In this article, we will provide a clear, step-by-step guide on how to change your Instagram name, ensuring you can seamlessly transition to your new identity on the platform.
Things You Need to Keep in Mind Before You Change Your Instagram Username
Before you update your Instagram username, it’s important to keep a few critical points in mind to ensure a smooth transition. Here are a few things you must remember:
1. Your new Username should not exceed 30 characters and can include letters, numbers, dots, and underscores. Avoid other special characters. This ensures your Username is easy to remember while fitting Instagram’s guidelines.
2. After making a change to your Username, Instagram requires you to wait at least 14 days before you can alter it again. This period allows you to consider your decision fully.
3. If you have a significant number of followers, Instagram might put your username change under review. Rest assured, you’ll be notified once this review is completed.
4. Instagram takes steps to ensure your followers are kept in the loop by notifying them of your username change. This helps maintain your connection with your audience despite the change.
5. Be aware that certain profile details, such as your email address, phone number, and gender, remain private and are only visible to you.
6. It’s important to note that changing your Username is not an option if your account is verified. This is to maintain the integrity and trust associated with verified accounts.
Understanding these considerations will make the process of changing your Instagram username easier and more effective, as you can now keep potential challenges and limitations in mind.
Steps to Change Your Instagram Username Using Mobile
Changing your Instagram username is straightforward whether you’re using an Android or iPhone device. Following these simple steps, you can update your handle name quickly. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Launch the Instagram app on your device. Look for your profile picture at the bottom right corner of the screen and tap on it. This action directs you to your profile page.
Step 2: You’ll find the “Edit Profile” button on your profile page. Tap on it. You will then see various text boxes, including one for your “Name” (this is your display name, not your Username) and another labeled “Username.” The Username is what you’re aiming to change.
Step 3: Now, tap on the “Username” field. This action highlights the field and makes it ready for editing.
Step 4: Type in your new desired handle name in the username field. Keep in mind that the Username you want might already be taken by someone else, or it may be available. Instagram will prompt you if the Username is already in use, and if so, you’ll need to try a different variation until you find one that’s unique and available.
Step 5: Once you’ve successfully entered a new and unique username, a blue checkmark or a “Done” button (depending on your device) will appear, usually at the upper right corner of the screen. Tap on this to finalize your username change.
By following these steps, you’ve now updated your Instagram username. Remember, your new Username is how people find you on Instagram, so choose a handle that reflects your identity or brand on the platform.
Steps to Change Your Instagram Username Using a Computer
While you’ll need a slightly different process than on mobile to edit Instagram usernames from a PC or desktop, it is still straightforward. Here’s how you can update your handle to a new username through the Instagram website:
Step 1: Open your preferred web browser, go to the Instagram homepage, and log in to your account. After logging in, click on your profile picture at the bottom left. This will take you to your profile.
Step 2: On your profile page, next to your old Username, you’ll see an “Edit Profile” button. Click on this to begin the process of changing your Username.
Step 3: On the Edit Profile page, locate and click on Meta’s Account Center box, usually found in the left corner of the screen. This will direct you to a more centralized location for account modifications.
Step 4: A pop-up or a new section will display your profile details. Here, click on your “Profile Name” to proceed with the username change.
Step 5: In the open section, you’ll find options to edit your name, Username, profile picture, and avatar. Click on the “Username” field to change your current Username.
Step 6: Type in the new Username you wish to have. As you type, be aware that the Username you desire might already be in use by someone else, or it may be available. Instagram will indicate whether the chosen Username is available or taken. If it’s taken, you will need to try different variations until you find one that is unique and available.
Step 7: After entering an available username, click “Done” to apply the changes. This button finalizes the change and updates your profile with the new Username.
Following these steps will effectively change your Instagram username via a PC, allowing you to adjust your online identity or align it more closely with your brand or personal changes.
What If Your Desired Instagram Username is Taken?
If you’ve tried to update your Instagram username only to find that your desired handle is already taken, it’s a common challenge many faces in personalizing their online presence. As mentioned earlier, the new Username you wish for may not always be available, leading to a bit of disappointment. However, there’s a solution to this! And this is where the Handle Monitor Tool comes in.
Handle Monitor offers an advanced and effective way to keep an eye on the availability of your preferred Instagram username. It’s perfect for those who have their heart set on a specific handle but find it’s currently in use. With our tool, you can stay ahead and get notified the moment your desired Username becomes available.
Handle Monitor works by continuously scanning Instagram for changes to usernames. All you have to do is enter the specific handle you wish to track and your email address, then click on “Start Monitoring Now,” and Handle Monitor will begin tracking that specific handle.
If the current holder changes it or if the account gets deactivated, you will be instantly notified, allowing you to claim your preferred Username before someone else does. The benefits of using the Handle Monitor tool include staying informed, getting swift notifications, and, more importantly, securing your preferred handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Change Your Name on Instagram Before 14 Days?
You cannot change your Instagram username before the 14-day period if you’ve already made a change. Instagram imposes this waiting period for all users.
Will Changing My Instagram Username Affect My Followers or Account Settings?
Changing your Username will not affect your followers or account settings, but your followers will see your new Username.
How Long Does My New Instagram Username Take To Become Active?
Your new Instagram username becomes active less than a minute after you change it, and it instantly reflects across the platform.
Are There Any Consequences for Violating Instagram’s Username Change Policies?
Violating Instagram’s username policies can lead to actions against your account, including temporary restrictions or permanent bans.
What Happens If Someone Else Claims My Old Username?
Once you change your Username, your old Username becomes available for others to claim immediately. This means you will no longer have access to the Username.
Why Won’t Instagram Let Me Change My Name?
Instagram may restrict username changes due to frequent changes, the 14-day limit, or violations of their policies.
How Many Times Can I Change My Instagram Username?
Instagram allows you to change your Username as often as you want, but not more than once every 14 days.
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