How to change your WhatsApp number without losing chat history: A step-by-step guide

Thinking about changing your WhatsApp number but worried about losing your chat history or leaving your groups? Don’t stress! WhatsApp has a handy feature that allows you to switch your phone number without losing your chats, exiting any groups, or having to inform everyone manually.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to make the switch smoothly.

How to change your WhatsApp number on the same phone

Step 1: Open WhatsApp on your phone.
Step 2: Tap on the three dots in the top-right corner and open Settings.
Step 3: Go to Account.
Step 4: Select Change Number and tap on Next.
Step 5: Enter both your old and new phone numbers, then tap Next.
Step 6: Enable the Notify Contacts toggle if you’d like to update your contacts.
Step 7: Choose who you want to notify, then tap Done.

That’s it! You’ve successfully changed your WhatsApp number without losing chats or leaving groups. Remember, your groups will automatically be notified when you change your number, regardless of whether you toggle on the Notify Contacts option.

Also read: How to use WhatsApp’s low-light mode for better video calls

How to change your number on a new phone without losing chats

If you’re switching to a new phone and a new number but want to keep your chat history, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open WhatsApp on your old phone.  
Step 2: Back up your chat history to Google Drive.  
Step 3: Install WhatsApp on your new phone and register your new phone number.  
Step 4: When prompted, tap Restore backup and select the same Google Account.

Now, your chat history will appear on your new phone with your new number intact.

Also read: How to backup WhatsApp chats: Step-by-step guide

Important things to keep in mind

• Blocked contacts: If you change your number on the same WhatsApp account, your blocked contacts will remain blocked and will not be notified of the change.
• Change number process: Be careful when entering your phone numbers. If an error occurs, you might lose the groups and need to ask admins to add you back.