How to Change Your WhatsApp Number Without Losing Chats: Step-by-Step Guide
WhatsApp has become an essential communication tool for both personal and professional use. From important work conversations to memorable personal chats, most users have years of data stored inside the app. This is why the thought of changing a WhatsApp number often worries people, as they fear losing their existing chat history, groups, and settings.
The good news is that WhatsApp already offers a built-in feature called “Change Number”, which allows users to update their registered phone number without deleting chats or exiting groups. If used correctly, this feature ensures a smooth transition from your old number to a new one.
What Is the WhatsApp ‘Change Number’ Feature?
The “Change Number” option is designed to migrate your WhatsApp account information—such as chat history, groups, and settings—from your old phone number to a new one. This feature is especially helpful if you:
-
Are switching to a new SIM card
-
Want to update your registered number
-
Wish to keep all chats intact
However, there are a few conditions you must meet before proceeding.
Important Things to Know Before Changing Your Number
Before following the steps, users should note the following limitations:
-
Your old phone number must still be active and able to receive SMS or calls
-
This feature works only when changing the phone number, not the smartphone
-
If you are switching devices, you must first take a WhatsApp backup on the old phone
Failing to meet these conditions may result in verification issues.
How to Change WhatsApp Number Without Losing Chats
Follow these simple steps carefully on Android or iPhone:
-
Open WhatsApp on your smartphone
-
Go to Settings
-
Tap on Account
-
Select Change Number
-
A message will appear stating that your account info, groups, and settings will be migrated. Tap Next
-
Enter your old phone number and your new phone number (with country code)
-
Tap Next to continue
At this stage, WhatsApp will ask whether you want to notify your contacts about your new number.
Contact Notification Options Explained
WhatsApp provides three notification choices:
-
All Contacts – Everyone saved in your contact list will be informed
-
Contacts I Have Chats With – Only active chat contacts will be notified
-
Custom – Manually choose whom to inform
Select the option that best suits your privacy needs and tap Done.
Final Verification Process
After confirming your choice, WhatsApp will prompt you to verify your new number. A six-digit verification code will be sent via SMS to your new phone number. Enter the code to complete the process.
Once verification is successful:
-
Your WhatsApp number will be updated
-
All existing chats will remain unchanged
-
Group memberships will stay active
Why This Feature Is Useful
The Change Number feature saves users from:
-
Losing important conversations
-
Rejoining groups manually
-
Informing contacts individually
It ensures continuity without disrupting communication.
Conclusion
Changing your WhatsApp number no longer means starting from scratch. With the built-in Change Number feature, you can easily migrate your account while keeping all chats, groups, and settings intact. By following the correct steps and meeting the basic requirements, users can update their number safely and without data loss.
