How to Change Your Instagram Username

Want a fresh handle? Changing your Instagram username takes just a few taps – but there are a couple of rules and a key difference between your username and display name to understand first. Here’s the full step-by-step.

Maybe you created your account years ago with a cringey handle you have outgrown. Perhaps you have rebranded your business and need your social media to match. Or maybe you just want a name that is simpler and easier for people to remember.

Whatever the reason, changing your Instagram username is a common and straightforward process. However, many users get confused about the difference between their username and their display name, the implications of making a change, and the potential risks involved.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We will cover how to change your name on instagram, explain the difference between your name and username, and provide tips for choosing the perfect new handle.

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Username vs. Display Name: What’s the Difference?

Before we dive into the steps, it is crucial to understand that your Instagram profile has two distinct names: your Username and your Name (often called a display name).

• Username: This is your unique identifier on the platform. It starts with an “@” symbol (e.g., @yourusername), appears at the top of your profile, and is part of your profile’s URL. It can only contain letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. No two users can have the same username.
• Name (Display Name): This appears below your profile picture in a bolder font. It does not have to be unique and can be changed as often as you like. You can include spaces, special characters, and emojis. This is often a person’s real name or a business’s full title.

Changing your display name is easy and has no major consequences. The real consideration comes when you decide to change instagram name in the form of your unique username.

Once your handle is sorted, it is worth exploring Instagram’s privacy side too: you can view Instagram Stories anonymously, and it helps to understand whether Instagram shows who viewed your Story.

How to Change Instagram Username on the App

Most users manage their accounts through the mobile app, and changing your username there only takes a few taps.

Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Open the Instagram App: Launch the app on your iOS or Android device.
2. Go to Your Profile: Tap on your profile picture icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
3. Tap “Edit Profile”: This button is located directly below your bio and follower count.
4. Find the Username Field: On the “Edit Profile” screen, you will see fields for your “Name” and “Username.” Tap on the “Username” field.
5. Enter Your New Username: Delete your old username and type in the new one you want to use. Instagram will immediately check if the name is available. If it is taken, a red “x” and a message will appear, prompting you to try another one.
6. Save Your Changes: Once you find an available username you are happy with, tap the checkmark (on Android) or “Done” (on iOS) in the top-right corner.

Your username will be updated instantly across the platform. The process for how to change instagram name (your display name) is exactly the same-just edit the “Name” field instead of the “Username” field in step 4.

How to Change Your Name on Instagram Using a Web Browser

If you prefer using Instagram on a desktop or laptop, the process is just as simple.

1. Go to Instagram.com: Open your preferred web browser and navigate to the Instagram website.
2. Log In: Enter your credentials to log into your account.
3. Navigate to Your Profile: Click on your profile picture, which is usually in the top-right corner of the page, and select “Profile” from the dropdown menu.
4. Click “Edit Profile”: This button is located next to your username at the top of your profile.
5. Change Your Username: In the “Username” field, type your desired new handle. Just like on the app, the system will tell you if the name is already in use.
6. Click “Submit”: Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the blue “Submit” button to save your changes.

Can You Change Your Instagram Username? Yes, But Consider This First.

The technical answer to “can you change your instagram username?” is a clear yes. However, there are important implications to think about before you commit.

1. The 14-Day Lock:
Once you change your username, your old username is locked for 14 days. This means that no one else can claim it during that period. If you change your mind, you can switch back to your old handle within that two-week window, provided it has not been claimed by a recently deleted account. After 14 days, it becomes available for anyone to take.

2. Broken Links and Tags:
Your old username will no longer link to your profile. Any links to your profile on websites, in email signatures, or on other social media platforms will lead to a “user not found” page. Similarly, if someone tagged you in a photo or comment using your old @handle, that tag will no longer be active. You will need to update your links manually wherever you have shared your profile.

3. Follower Notification (for larger accounts):
If you have a large following, Instagram may need to review your username change. This is a security measure to prevent account theft and impersonation. The review is usually quick, but it is something to be aware of. Your followers will not receive a direct notification about the change, but they will see your new username on your posts and stories.

4. Losing Your Verified Badge:
If your account is verified (with the blue checkmark), changing your username may cause you to lose your verification. You would need to reapply for verification under the new name.

Tips for Choosing a Great New Username

Coming up with a good, available username can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect one:

• Keep it Simple and Memorable: Avoid long strings of numbers or confusing spellings.
• Make it Relevant: Your username should reflect you or your brand.
• Use Underscores or Periods: If your desired name is taken, try adding an underscore (_) or a period (.) to create a unique variation (e.g., @john.smith or @john_smith).
• Add an Initial or a Keyword: Try adding a middle initial or a word that describes what you do (e.g., @johnsmith.art or @jsmith).

Final Thoughts

Learning how to change username in instagram is easy, but it is a decision that should be made thoughtfully. Your username is your digital address, and changing it requires you to update your digital footprint accordingly.

While your display name can be changed on a whim, your username change affects your links, tags, and overall brand identity. By following the steps outlined above and considering the consequences, you can ensure a smooth transition to a new handle that better represents who you are today. Take your time, choose wisely, and enjoy your fresh start on the platform.