What happens to WhatsApp if you change your number - briefly?
If you change your phone number while using WhatsApp, your account will be automatically deactivated, and all associated data will be deleted after a certain period of inactivity. To restore your account with the new number, you need to create a new WhatsApp profile and verify it using the updated number.
What happens to WhatsApp if you change your number - in detail?
When you change your phone number, the impact on your WhatsApp account can be significant and multifaceted. Here's a detailed breakdown of what happens:
Firstly, your WhatsApp account is tied to your phone number. This means that changing your phone number effectively creates a new identity for your WhatsApp profile. Your old number will no longer be associated with your WhatsApp account, and you won't be able to receive messages or calls on WhatsApp using the old number.
Secondly, all your contacts will see that your phone number has changed. If they try to send a message to your old number, they will receive an error indicating that the number is no longer registered with WhatsApp. This can cause some confusion among your contacts until they update your contact information with your new number.
Thirdly, all group chats you are part of will be affected. If you were added to a group using your old phone number, you will need to be re-added using your new number. This process requires the group admin to remove you from the group and then add you back with your new number. During this transition period, you won't have access to the group chat until you are re-added.
Fourthly, your WhatsApp profile information will remain intact. Your name, profile picture, and other settings will not change when you switch phone numbers. However, it is a good idea to notify your contacts about the change in your number to ensure seamless communication.
Lastly, if you have any pending messages or calls that were sent to your old number before you switched, they may not be delivered to your new WhatsApp account. It's crucial to inform all your contacts about the number change as soon as possible to minimize any disruption in communication.
In summary, changing your phone number has a substantial impact on your WhatsApp experience. While your profile information remains unchanged, your contacts will need to update your number, and you may temporarily lose access to group chats. Notifying your contacts promptly about the change can help mitigate these issues and ensure a smooth transition.