What is an Instagram username?
If you’re wondering how to change Instagram name, this article explains everything you need to know on how to change your username. On your Instagram profile, your Instagram username appears at the top of the page, for example, www.instagram.com/yourusername
There must be fewer than 30 characters in the username, and it can only be made up of letters, numbers, periods, and underscores.
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Is the Instagram Username the same as the Instagram display name?
There is a difference between your Instagram display name and your username. Display names don’t have to be unique, and they appear below your profile icon. You can even add emojis or special characters to make it more interesting. Instagram handles, or usernames, appear at the top of your profile.
Instagram username guidelines:
It has to be unique to you. After choosing a new username, you have 14 days to change it back if no one has already claimed it.
It’s easy to change your Instagram username, here’s how.
- Here’s how you can edit your Instagram username.
1. Log into your Instagram account on your iOS or Android device. In case you have more than one account, make sure you are logged in to the one you wish to change.
2. Tap your avatar icon in the bottom-right corner to go to your profile
3. Tap Edit profile under your bio
4. Tap the Username field and type in your new handle.
5. Tap the blue checkmark in the upper right corner.
6. Fill out the Name field with your display name.
You can change your username on a computer by following these steps.
- By using your computer, you can change your username.
1. Visit Instagram.com using a web browser
2. Log into Instagram by entering your Instagram username and password.
3. Tap onto your profile icon on the right side of the homepage and select the Profile option.
4. Next to your Instagram username, click the Edit profile button to access your profile.
Should you make a mistake during this period or decide that you do not like the new username in the end, you will have the option of going back to your old handle within 14 days. Even after that time, you may still be able to switch back to your old handle. However, by then, it may have already been taken by someone else, so it may not be possible for you to do so.
Updating your Instagram username: What are the limitations?
Changing your Instagram name and username is easy, but there are a few limitations. Depending on how much you want to grow your following and how actively you’ve been promoting your Instagram account, there are some important things to consider before you press “Done.
What is the maximum number of times you can change your Instagram name?
You can modify your name on Instagram for unlimited times. However, you need to take note there is a quota to the number of times you can change your name which is twice within 14 days. After the quota is hit, you need to wait for a specific amount of time before you can change Instagram name again.
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How will your username change affect your account?
When you change your username, everything within the app will automatically switch over to your new account name. Hence, all of your previous comments, mentions, and likes will reflect your new username.
Is it possible for viewers to see your previous Instagram names if you change your username?
Viewers will only be able to see your current username once you change your Instagram name. There is no way for them to access your previous usernames.
Change Instagram username: Does it affect your existing account?
Updating your Username is a great way to test out your new name. For clarity, changing your display name on Instagram will not affect your account at all.
What will happen to my tagged posts when I change my Instagram Username?
Not to worry, you will not lose your tagged photos! As soon as your new username is linked to your existing account, any photos you tagged with your old username will be automatically updated. And your new username will be linked to them.
Does changing my Instagram name result in a loss of followers?
By right, you shouldn’t be losing your followers. However, some Instagram users claimed to have dropped in their follower count and lost engagement with their followers after changing their Instagram Name. This could be due to followers who have been following you for entirely could not find your Name, and they receive an alert that says “User Not Found”. There is also a possibility that your followers do not recognize you and your new name. If they think you are a new account, it may be possible that they may unfollow your account. The person may believe that you are no longer active and unfollow you. Hence, it’s advisable to inform your followers in advance before changing it by posting on your post or story.
How long do you have to wait to change Instagram name?
There is no time restriction when changing your Instagram name. However, there is a quota to the number of times you can change your display name, which is twice within 14 days. After the quota is hit, you need to wait for a specific amount of time before you can change your name again.
What is the 14-day Instagram username restriction? Can it be avoided?
There are no time restrictions on Username changes. However, to have your Instagram display Name changed twice within a 14-day period can be a problem. Here’s how you can speed up the 14-day wait:
1. Tap your avatar icon in the bottom-right corner to go to your profile
2. Tap on the 3-lines in the top-right corner of your profile.
3. Go to Settings.
4. Click on Help.
5. Click on Report a Problem.
From here, you can type in reasons why you have exceeded the restricted number of times in changing your Display name. For instance, someone has been toying with your account, etc. With fingers crossed, hopefully Instagram will allow you to change your Display name within 3 to 4 business days.
Is changing my Instagram username a good idea?
If you are looking for a place to expand your brand and stay connected with your audience, Instagram is the right place to explore. The handle should reflect the direction of your business since users communicate through it.
You may also want to show consistency if you are dealing with business. You can make things easier for your followers by aligning your Instagram name with your other platforms. By making these small changes to your website, you can drive more traffic to your business.
What Is the Best Way to Change Your Instagram Name?
Above all else, keep your Instagram handle straightforward. You want something easily searchable and memorable!
Keep numbers and repetitive letters to a minimum unless it is directly related to your brand. Having such can become too confusing for followers to read and ultimately find on the platform. Break up words with an underscore or use a fun nickname instead.
You should choose a name that reflects your personality and what you wish to accomplish through your Instagram account. Make sure your handle is accurate, so followers know right away of these intentions.
Would it be possible to get a different username if the one I want is already taken?
Of course! If the username you want is already in use, Instagram will alert you to this after you click on the Submit button or tap on “Done.” Re-try different variations until you find a username that’s similar to the one you want.
What does the lock next to my name on Instagram indicate?
If your username has a lock icon beside it, then it could mean that your account is currently set to private. This means that only followers you approve can view the content on your account.
Here are the following steps to make your account public:
1. Tap your avatar icon in the bottom-right corner to go to your profile.
2. Tap on the 3-lines in the top-right corner of your profile.
3. Go to Settings.
4. Click on Privacy.
5. Click on the pill shape button beside Private Account to off it.
Can I use Instagram immediately after changing my Instagram Username?
Yes! There are no time restrictions to use Instagram after changing your Username, so Instagram right away.
Can you tell me if it’s a bad idea to change my Instagram username?
Changing a Username is not the best idea if you have already generated a good amount of audience. Especially if you have been using it for quite some time.
One of the reasons could be that those links that are promoted outside the app such as under your email signature or in a guest blog post, won’t link automatically to your Instagram account anymore.
Note that Instagram profile URLs are not automatically changed outside the app. Hence, you will experience a considerable amount of time when you will not appear in Google or other search engines.
It is also a good idea to update your username on any other social media accounts such as Facebook, that is linked to your Instagram account.
My Instagram username won’t change. Why?
In some cases, Instagram won’t let you submit a new username if you don’t meet the requirements. The most common reason could be the Username is taken, so try another one.
It could also be due to app caching, which occurs when you change your username on Instagram. This is usually not much of a concern as your followers will only be able to see your new Username on Instagram. The problem usually gets fixed after a couple of hours. You can also restart your phone to fix this problem. Another common solution is uninstalling and reinstalling Instagram. That should solve your problem.
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Is it possible to change my Instagram username and keep my old one at the same time?
No, you can’t. Once you change your Instagram username, the old username will be kept locked for 14 days of grace period. This is to prevent hackers who grab discarded usernames to be used as bots. Should this situation happen, you will never be able to return to your old username again. After 14 days, it will be released to be used by the public to use, and it won’t be available to you once claimed.
Can I get back my old Instagram username after changing?
It is generally possible to change an Instagram username back to a previously used name within 14 days. Take note that your old username will be locked during this buffer time. You can change it back within this time period. After that, the username will be available for anyone to use, and it may be taken by a new user.
Does Instagram notify you when your username request is successful?
Yes! Instagram will notify you if the change of Username is successful. If the username is not taken by anyone, it should take effect immediately. And there shouldn’t be any buffer period between approval to using your account right away.
Your Username change may need to be reviewed if your account reaches a lot of followers. When that happens, you will be notified when the Instagram team have completed a review. If not, your Username will be changed immediately if available. Your followers may be informed of your Username change.
When you change your name on Instagram does it notify everyone?
No, Instagram may not inform your followers should you decide to change your display name on Instagram. Hence, it’s best to give a heads-up to your followers before you make any changes to your display name.
I have changed my Instagram username, but the old username still shows up.
You’re likely experiencing a cache issue if you edited your username and still see your old username. The Instagram app caches certain images and text in order to make it run more quickly.
Your old cached username is only visible to you, but it will eventually be completely removed from the system. You can restart your phone to see if the cache gets solved. If it doesn’t work, you can clear your cache by uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
How to share a photo that you’ve previously uploaded on Instagram to another site:
Instagram app for Android
- Tap avatar icon or your profile picture in the bottom right to go to your profile.
- Tap the post that you’d like to share.
- Tap on 3-dots in the top right.
- Tap Post to other apps.
- Tap the name of the site where you’d like to share your post (Facebook, Twitter or Tumblr) and then tap tick.
Instagram app for iPhone
- Tap avatar icon or your profile picture in the bottom right to go to your profile.
- Tap the post that you’d like to share.
- Tap on 3-dots in the top right.
- Tap Share.
- Tap the name of the site where you’d like to share your post (Facebook, Twitter or Tumblr) and then tap Share. You can also choose an email or copy link.
What happens when you block someone on Instagram?
If you block someone from the Instagram app, you can block their account, or block their account with other accounts they may have or create. You will have to block each account individually if you’re following multiple accounts owned by the same person. When you block someone, they will not be notified.
How to restrict or block someone from their profile page?
1. Go to the specific Instagram user page that you wish to restrict or block.
2. Go to the 3 dots in the right-top corner.
3. Click on Restrict or Block, depending on your preference.
How to block someone from through settings
1. Tap your avatar icon in the bottom-right corner to go to your profile.
2. Tap on the 3-lines in the top-right corner of your profile.
3. Go to Settings.
4. Tap Privacy.
5. Go to Blocked accounts.
- To unblock someone on your blocked accounts list, tap Unblock to the right of their name. Tap Unblock again to confirm.
- To add someone to your blocked accounts list, tap the Plus sign in the top right and search for the person who you’d like to block. Tap Block to the right of their name.
- To block the account and other accounts that they may have or create, tap Block at the bottom to confirm.
- If you prefer to only block that account, tap circle next to Block [username]. Tap Block again to confirm.
When you restrict someone, only you and the restricted person can view their new comments on your post and their replies to stickers in your stories. Their chat is no longer on your chat list, but you still can search for it. You can unrestrict them directly from their profile page.
Does changing your username unblock you on Instagram?
Yes, you will still be blocked if you change the username for the same account in which you have blocked. However, if you create a new account with another username, you are not blocked. You can see their posts if they are not private. If the account is private, you need to follow the Instagram user in order to view them.
Can a blocked person see my new username?
If you change to a new username, the blocked person would not be able to see your new username. However, if you create a new account with a new username, that person will be able to view your new account if they know your Username.
What happens to the Likes and Comments after I block someone?
- If you block someone, their likes and comments will be removed from your photos and videos. However, if you unblock someone, their previous likes and comments will not be restored.
- Blocking someone doesn’t prevent them from seeing your likes and comments on posts shared by public accounts or accounts that they follow.
What about the Mentions and Tags?
- Blocked users will not be able to mention your username or tag you.
- If you block someone and then change your username, they won’t be able to mention or tag you unless they know your new username.
Will I be able to message someone that I blocked?
- Blocking someone will keep your messaging threads in your Direct inbox, but you will not be able to message them.
- You’ll get a prompt asking whether you want to stay in the group or leave if you’re in a group message with someone that you’ve blocked. Should you choose to stay in the group, you’ll be able to see messages from the person you blocked in the group. Here’s how to create a group message:
1. Click on Inbox.
2. Click on write message in the top right corner.
3. Select your group of Instagram users that you want to create a room with by clicking on the round icon beside the users’ name.
4. You will be prompted to Create Group Chat. Click on it and you are good to go.
- It will not be possible for someone who has been blocked from joining a room that you create if they are logged into their Instagram account.
- You may need to block each account individually if the person you’ve blocked has multiple Instagram or Facebook accounts.
- If you have a Facebook account that is linked to your Instagram, the account you blocked will still be able to message or call your Facebook account. Unless, you also block them on Facebook.
If you don’t want to block someone, you can remove them as a follower, restrict them from commenting on your photos and videos.
How to remove them as follower:
1. Go to the selected Instagram Profile.
2. Click on the 3 dots in the right-top corner.
3. Click on Remove Follower.
If you no longer want to block someone, you can unblock them.