How to change my phone number on WhatsApp?

How to change my phone number on WhatsApp - briefly?

To change your phone number on WhatsApp, open the app and go to Settings > Account > Change Number. Follow the prompts to enter both your old and new numbers, then verify the new one. This process ensures that all your chat history and contacts are transferred to the new number.

How to change my phone number on WhatsApp - in detail?

Changing your phone number on WhatsApp is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

  1. Backup Your Data: Before making any changes, it's crucial to back up your chat history. This can be done using Google Drive (for Android) or iCloud (for iOS). Go to WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and follow the prompts to save your data.
  2. Verify Your New Number: Ensure that your new phone number is active and can receive SMS messages or calls. You will need this for verification purposes during the number change process.
  3. Update WhatsApp Settings: Open WhatsApp on your device, go to Settings > Account. Here you will see an option labeled "Change Number." Tap on it.
  4. Enter Your Old and New Numbers: You will be prompted to enter your old phone number (the one currently registered with WhatsApp) in the top field and your new phone number in the bottom field. Make sure you enter the country code for both numbers.
  5. Verification Process: After entering the numbers, tap "Next." WhatsApp will send a verification code to your new number via SMS. If you don’t receive the code, you can choose to verify by phone call instead.
  6. Enter the Verification Code: Once you receive the verification code, enter it into the field provided and tap "Next." This will confirm that the new number is indeed yours.
  7. Transfer Your Chat History (Optional): During this process, WhatsApp will ask if you want to transfer your chat history from your old phone number to your new one. If you have backed up your data as advised earlier, selecting "Yes" will migrate your conversations, including messages and media.
  8. Complete the Process: After confirming the code and optionally transferring your chat history, WhatsApp will update your account with the new phone number. You should now be able to use WhatsApp as usual with your new number.
  9. Inform Your Contacts (Optional): It’s a good idea to let your contacts know about the change in your phone number so they can update their records and continue reaching you without issues.

By following these steps, you should be able to change your phone number on WhatsApp efficiently while maintaining access to all your existing chats and data.