Changing your WhatsApp number can feel risky. The fear of losing chats, missing messages, or getting removed from groups stops many from making the switch.
But WhatsApp has a built-in feature that ensures a smooth transition while keeping everything intact.
Whether you're upgrading to a new SIM, switching devices, or protecting your privacy, following the right steps will help you move to a new number without losing any data.
This guide will walk you through the process, show you how to control notifications, and answer common concerns so you can make the switch with confidence.
Why Do People Need to Change Their WhatsApp Numbers?
People switch their WhatsApp numbers for many reasons, but the goal is always the same. They want to keep their chats, contacts, and groups without losing access.
A simple mistake could mean missing important messages or getting locked out, so knowing when and how to change your number correctly makes all the difference.
Getting a New Phone Number
Changing numbers is common when switching mobile providers or upgrading to a better plan. Many users think they need to create a new account, but that’s unnecessary.
WhatsApp lets you update your number while keeping your chat history and groups intact.
Moving to a Different Country or Region
Relocating to another country often means getting a local SIM card. If your old number doesn’t work in the new region or has high roaming charges, updating your WhatsApp number is the best option.
This allows you to keep using WhatsApp as usual without losing chats or contacts.
Lost or Deactivated SIM Card
Losing access to your SIM card is a major problem because WhatsApp relies on your number for verification.
If you're still logged in, you can update your number before losing access. If not, recovering your account may not be possible.
Privacy and Security Concerns
Some users switch numbers to avoid spam, unwanted messages, or specific contacts. WhatsApp gives you control over who gets notified.
Groups will update automatically, but you can choose whether your individual contacts are informed.
Upgrading or Changing Devices
Getting a new phone is exciting until you realize you need to move everything over. If you're switching between Android and iPhone, transferring WhatsApp data can be tricky.
Changing your number before switching devices helps make the process smoother.
Business or Work-Related Number Change
WhatsApp Business users often switch numbers when changing jobs or separating work and personal accounts.
While WhatsApp updates your number for existing chats, informing customers manually is still a good idea to avoid confusion.
Preparing for WhatsApp Number Change Process
Changing your WhatsApp number is not just about entering a new phone number. It requires a few important steps to ensure that your chats, contacts, and settings remain intact.
A little preparation can prevent common issues.
Backup WhatsApp Chats Before Changing Your Number
WhatsApp does not store your messages on its servers, which means if something goes wrong, your chats could be lost permanently.
To avoid this, backing up your data before changing your number is essential.
How to Backup WhatsApp on Android
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
- Tap on Chats > Chat Backup.
- Select Backup to Google Drive and choose a backup frequency.
- Tap Back Up Now to create a fresh backup.
- Ensure you are using the same Google account when restoring your chats on a new device.
💡A stable internet connection is necessary for a successful backup. Using Wi-Fi is recommended to avoid high mobile data usage.
How to Backup WhatsApp on iPhone
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
- Select Chats > Chat Backup.
- Tap Back Up Now to manually back up your chats to iCloud.
- To enable automatic backups, select Auto Backup and choose the frequency.
- Ensure you are logged into the same Apple ID on iCloud when restoring on a new iPhone.
💡If your iCloud storage is full, WhatsApp will not be able to back up your chats. Free up space or upgrade your iCloud plan if necessary.
Ensure Your New SIM Card is Ready
Before changing your WhatsApp number, you need to make sure your new phone number is active and ready to receive messages.
Without a working SIM card, you won’t be able to verify your new number, which could lead to a failed transfer.
- Insert the new SIM card into your phone.
- Check if it can send and receive SMS messages.
- Ensure you have a stable mobile network or Wi-Fi connection.
- Disable any call-blocking or SMS-blocking apps that may interfere with the verification process.
If your new number is not yet active, wait until your carrier confirms activation before proceeding with the number change.
Verify You Are Using the Latest WhatsApp Version
Using an outdated version of WhatsApp can lead to compatibility issues or missing features. Before changing your number, make sure your app is updated to the latest version.
- On Android: Open Google Play Store, search for WhatsApp, and tap Update if available.
- On iPhone: Open App Store, search for WhatsApp, and tap Update if needed.
Running the latest version ensures you have all the newest security updates and features, making the transition to your new number seamless.
In the next section, we will go through the step-by-step process to update your number without losing chats or contacts.
How to Change WhatsApp Number
Updating your WhatsApp number is simple if done correctly. The Change Number feature ensures that your chats, contacts, and settings stay intact while removing your old number from WhatsApp.
To avoid any issues like failed verification or missing messages, follow these steps carefully.
A. How to Change WhatsApp Number on the Same Device
If you are keeping the same phone and only changing your SIM card, WhatsApp allows you to update your number without affecting your existing chats or groups.
Before starting, ensure your new SIM card is inserted and active to receive the verification code.
Step 1
Open WhatsApp Settings
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Tap the three-dot menu (Android) or go to Settings (iPhone).
- Select Account and tap Change Number.
- Tap Next to continue.
Step 2
Enter Your Old and New Number
- Type your current WhatsApp number in the first box.
- Enter your new phone number in the second box.
- Tap Next to proceed.
Step 3
Choose Who Gets Notified
WhatsApp allows you to control who gets notified about your number change.
- Notify All Contacts – Everyone in your contact list will be informed.
- Notify Only Contacts I Have Chats With – Only people you have messaged will be notified.
- Do Not Notify Contacts – Your number will change silently, but groups will still be updated automatically.
After selecting your preference, tap Next.
Step 4
Verify Your New Number
- A 6-digit verification code will be sent to your new number via SMS.
- Enter the code in WhatsApp to complete the number change.
Step 5
Confirm Your WhatsApp Data is Intact
Once verification is complete:
✔ Your chats, media, and settings will be linked to your new number.
✔ Your groups will update automatically.
✔ Your old number will be removed from WhatsApp servers.
Your WhatsApp number has now been successfully changed without losing any data. If you're switching to a new device, the next section will guide you through the process.
B. How to Change WhatsApp Number on a New Device
Switching to a new phone means transferring your WhatsApp account along with your number. If you don’t follow the correct steps, you could lose chats, media, and contacts.
Whether you’re staying on the same operating system or switching between Android and iPhone, here’s how to ensure a smooth transition.
How to Change WhatsApp Number on a New Device with the Same OS
(Android → Android, iPhone → iPhone)
If you're moving to a new device but staying on the same operating system, WhatsApp allows you to transfer everything, including your chats, groups, and media. To prevent data loss, it’s important to back up your chats before switching.
Step 1
Back Up Your Chats
- Open WhatsApp on your old device.
- Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.
- Tap Back Up Now to create a manual backup.
- Ensure the backup is saved to Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone).
Step 2
Insert Your New SIM Card
- Insert the new SIM card into your new phone.
- Make sure it is activated and can receive SMS for verification.
Step 3
Install WhatsApp on the New Device
- Download and install WhatsApp from the Google Play Store or App Store.
- Open WhatsApp and tap Agree & Continue.
Step 4
Verify Your New Number
- Enter your new phone number and tap Next.
- WhatsApp will send a 6-digit OTP for verification.
- Enter the OTP to proceed.
Step 5
Restore Your Chats
- WhatsApp will detect your backup and prompt you to restore it.
- Tap Restore and wait for the process to complete.
- Once restored, your chats, media, and settings will be available on the new device.
Your WhatsApp number is now updated, and all your data is successfully transferred. If you are moving between Android and iPhone, follow the next section for a different method.
How to Change WhatsApp Number on a New Device Cross-Platform
(Cross-Platform: Android → iPhone or iPhone → Android)
Moving between Android and iPhone requires a different approach since WhatsApp backups on Google Drive and iCloud are not compatible.
The official Move to iOS tool helps with Android to iPhone transfers, while WhatsApp’s Chat Transfer feature supports both directions.
Step 1
Use WhatsApp’s Chat Transfer Feature (Best Method)
- For Android to iPhone: Download the Move to iOS app from the Play Store.
- For iPhone to Android: Use WhatsApp’s built-in chat transfer during setup.
Step 2
Insert Your New SIM Card
- Insert your new SIM card into the new phone.
- Ensure the number is active and can receive SMS.
Step 3
Install WhatsApp on the New Device
- Download and install WhatsApp from the Play Store or App Store.
- Open the app and tap Agree & Continue.
Step 4
Transfer Chats from the Old Device
- If using Move to iOS, select WhatsApp during the data transfer process.
- If using WhatsApp’s built-in transfer, follow the on-screen instructions.
- Keep both devices connected and wait for the transfer to finish.
Step 5
Verify Your New Number
- Enter your new number and verify it with the OTP sent via SMS.
- Once verified, your chats, groups, and media will be available.
Switching between platforms requires extra steps, but following this process ensures you don’t lose important messages. Your WhatsApp number is now updated, and your data remains intact.
C. How to Change WhatsApp Business Number
Switching your WhatsApp Business number is different from changing a personal WhatsApp number. Losing chats, customer messages, or catalog data can disrupt business operations.
To avoid this, WhatsApp provides a Change Number feature that updates your business account while keeping chats, labels, and contacts intact. Follow the steps below to ensure a smooth transition.
Step 1
Backup Your WhatsApp Business Data
Before making any changes, create a backup to ensure you don’t lose any chats or business settings.
- Open WhatsApp Business and go to Settings.
- Tap Chats > Chat Backup.
- Select Back Up Now to manually save your chats.
- Ensure your backup is linked to Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone).
Backing up ensures that if something goes wrong, you can restore your data easily.
Step 2
Insert the New SIM Card
- Place your new SIM card into your phone.
- Make sure it is activated and can receive SMS or calls for verification.
Without a working SIM, you won’t be able to verify your new number.
Step 3
Open WhatsApp Business Settings
- Open WhatsApp Business on your phone.
- Tap the three-dot menu (Android) or go to Settings (iPhone).
- Select Account > Change Number.
- Tap Next to continue.
Step 4
Enter Your Old and New Business Number
- In the first box, enter your current WhatsApp Business number.
- In the second box, enter your new phone number.
- Tap Next to proceed.
Suggested Reading:
Simple Guide on How to Get Blue Tick on WhatsApp
Step 5
Choose Who Gets Notified About Your New Number
WhatsApp Business allows you to decide how customers and contacts are informed.
- Notify All Contacts – Every customer and contact will receive an update.
- Notify Only Contacts You Have Chats With – Only people you have messaged will be notified.
- Do Not Notify Contacts – Your number will change quietly, but groups will update automatically.
After selecting your preference, tap Next.
Step 6
Verify Your New WhatsApp Business Number
- WhatsApp will send a 6-digit verification code to your new number.
- Enter the code to complete the process.
If you don’t receive the OTP, request a call verification instead.
Step 7
Confirm Your Business Chats and Data Are Intact
Once verification is complete:
✔ Your chats, media, and business settings will be linked to your new number.
✔ Your business catalog and quick replies will remain unchanged.
✔ Your groups will be updated automatically.
✔ Your old number will be removed from WhatsApp servers.
Your WhatsApp Business number is now updated, and your customers can continue reaching you without any disruptions.
D. How to Change WhatsApp Number Without Old Number?
Losing access to your old SIM card makes changing your WhatsApp number tricky. Without the old number, you won’t receive the verification code needed for the standard process.
However, there are still ways to update your number and keep your WhatsApp account active.
Step 1
Check if You Are Still Logged into WhatsApp
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- If you can send and receive messages, you are still logged in.
- If you are logged out, you cannot change your number and will need to create a new account.
Step 2
Insert Your New SIM Card
- Make sure your new SIM is active and can receive SMS or calls.
Step 3
Change Your Number in WhatsApp Settings
- Go to Settings > Account > Change Number.
- Tap Next and enter your new number in the second box.
Step 4
Verify Your New Number
- WhatsApp will send an OTP to your new number.
- If you don’t receive it, request a call verification.
Step 5
Restore Chats (If Needed)
- If you had a backup on Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone), reinstall WhatsApp.
- During setup, verify your new number and restore your chats.
If you were logged out and had no backup, your old chats cannot be recovered.
E. How to Change WhatsApp Number Without Notifying Contacts?
WhatsApp automatically updates groups when you change your number, but notifying individual contacts is optional. If you prefer to keep the change private, follow these steps.
Step 1
Change Your Number in WhatsApp Settings
- Open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Change Number.
- Enter your old and new numbers and tap Next.
Step 2
Disable Contact Notifications
- On the notification screen, select Do Not Notify Contacts.
- WhatsApp will update groups but won’t inform individual contacts.
Step 3
Verify Your New Number
- Enter the OTP sent to your new number.
- Complete the verification process.
Step 4
Update Your Number Manually (If Needed)
- If you want specific contacts to know, send a direct message instead of using WhatsApp’s notification option.
This method lets you change your WhatsApp number discreetly while keeping your chats and groups intact.
Suggested Reading:
35 WhatsApp Business Description Examples with Templates
What Happens When You Change Your Number on WhatsApp?
Changing your WhatsApp number updates your account without deleting chats or contacts.
However, some changes occur in the background. Knowing what to expect ensures you don’t lose access to important conversations or groups.
Will You Lose Your Chats and Media?
No, your chat history and media will remain intact if you follow the correct process.
- WhatsApp automatically transfers chats and media to your new number.
- If you switch devices, you need a backup on Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone) to restore chats.
- Deleting WhatsApp before changing your number may cause data loss.
Will You Leave Your WhatsApp Groups?
No, you will remain in all your WhatsApp groups.
- Your number is automatically updated in group chats.
- You retain admin privileges if you were an admin.
- Group members will see that you have changed your number.
If you want to keep the change private, updating your number without notifying contacts ensures group members only see your new number when they message you.
How to Inform Change of Mobile Number in WhatsApp?
WhatsApp gives you control over how you notify contacts.
- Use WhatsApp’s built-in notification feature when changing your number.
- If you prefer manual updates:
- Send a broadcast message to selected contacts.
- Update your WhatsApp status with your new number.
- Inform important contacts individually.
For business accounts, updating your contact details on your website, social media, and customer support platforms ensures customers don’t lose access to your services.
WhatsApp Change Number Notification & Privacy Settings
Changing your number updates your account, but you can control who gets notified.
Will My Contacts Get a WhatsApp Change Number Notification?
WhatsApp allows you to choose whether your contacts are informed.
- Notify All Contacts – Everyone in your contact list gets an update.
- Notify Only Contacts You Have Chats With – Only people you’ve messaged will see the update.
- Do Not Notify Contacts – No one gets notified, but groups will update automatically.
Regardless of your choice, group chats will display your new number.
Can I Change WhatsApp Number Without Notifying Contacts?
Yes, you can update your number privately.
- Select “Do Not Notify Contacts” when changing your number.
- Only groups will be updated automatically.
- Individual contacts will only see your new number when they message you.
This is ideal for users who want to change numbers discreetly without alerting everyone in their contact list.
💡Use Custom Notifications for Business Clients
For business users, selectively notifying customers can help maintain communication without unnecessary alerts.
- Use broadcast lists to inform key clients.
- Update your WhatsApp Business catalog and profile with your new number.
- Keep your customer support channels updated to prevent missed inquiries.
By managing notifications wisely, you can switch numbers while keeping control over who knows about the change.
What to Do After Changing Your WhatsApp Number
Changing your WhatsApp number is only the first step. To avoid disruptions, ensure that your new number is updated across all linked devices, security settings, and business platforms. Follow these steps to keep everything running smoothly.
Update Your WhatsApp Number on Linked Devices
If you use WhatsApp Web or WhatsApp Desktop, updating your number ensures uninterrupted access.
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Tap Linked Devices under Settings.
- Log out of all connected devices and scan the QR code to log in again.
This step prevents any connection issues and ensures all linked devices recognize your new number.
Update WhatsApp Business Profile (If Applicable)
For business users, keeping your contact details updated is essential to maintain customer trust.
- Open WhatsApp Business and go to Settings.
- Tap Business Profile and update your phone number.
- Check that your business description, website, and email are correct.
Updating your number ensures customers can reach you without confusion.
Re-Enable Two-Step Verification for Extra Security
Changing your number resets two-step verification, which protects your account from unauthorized access.
- Open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification.
- Tap Enable and set a 6-digit PIN.
- Add a recovery email to secure your account.
This extra layer of security ensures that even if someone gets access to your number, they cannot log into your WhatsApp account without your PIN.
Update Your Number on Official Listings & Customer Support(For Businesses)
If you use WhatsApp for customer service or marketing, update your number everywhere your business is listed.
- Edit your number on Google My Business, Facebook, and Instagram.
- Update your website’s contact page and any email signatures.
- Notify existing customers via WhatsApp Broadcast or an automated message.
Keeping your number updated prevents communication gaps and ensures customers can reach you without any issues.
Following these steps keeps your WhatsApp experience smooth and prevents disruptions in personal or business communications.
Suggested Reading:
Simple Steps for How to Unbanned from WhatsApp Quickly
Common Issues in WhatsApp Change Number Process
Changing your WhatsApp number is usually smooth, but sometimes things go wrong. Users often face verification failures, missing chats, or contacts not updating correctly.
Here’s how to fix the most common issues.
Not Receiving OTP?
If you don’t receive the 6-digit verification code, you won’t be able to complete the number change. This can happen due to network issues or blocked messages.
- Check your network connection and ensure you have a stable signal.
- Restart your phone and try again.
- Make sure your new SIM is active and can receive SMS.
- Disable call-blocking or spam filters that may block WhatsApp messages.
- Request a call verification if SMS is not received.
If the issue persists, wait a few hours before trying again. Multiple failed attempts can temporarily block verification requests.
WhatsApp Change Number Failed?
If the number change fails, there could be an issue with your account settings or device.
- Ensure WhatsApp is updated to the latest version from the Play Store or App Store.
- Confirm the new number is active and has an active plan for receiving SMS.
- Check if WhatsApp is installed on multiple devices, as multi-device mode can cause errors.
- Clear the app cache on Android by going to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Storage > Clear Cache.
If the problem continues, reinstall WhatsApp and try again.
Lost Chats After Changing Number?
If your chat history disappears after switching numbers, it may not have been backed up correctly.
- Check your backup settings in WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.
- Restore from Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone) if a backup was saved.
- Ensure you’re using the same backup account linked to your old number.
If there’s no backup, chat history cannot be recovered. In this case, you’ll need to start fresh.
Sync Contacts Manually if They Don’t Update
After changing your number, some contacts may not see your new number until they refresh their WhatsApp list.
- Ask contacts to refresh their WhatsApp contacts by opening the app and pulling down the contacts list.
- On Android, go to Contacts > Settings > Refresh.
- On iPhone, restart WhatsApp and open the Contacts tab.
If some contacts still don’t update, they may need to save your new number manually.
Following these troubleshooting steps will help resolve the most common issues, ensuring a smooth transition to your new WhatsApp number.
Conclusion
Updating your WhatsApp number keeps your conversations and business interactions uninterrupted. With the right steps, you can switch without losing chats or groups
If your business relies on WhatsApp for customer engagement, managing conversations manually can be time-consuming.
BotPenguin simplifies this by automating responses, handling FAQs, and managing customer interactions through AI-powered WhatsApp chatbots. Whether you're changing numbers or scaling communication, BotPenguin ensures your business stays connected without any disruptions.
Want to make WhatsApp work smarter for your business? Try BotPenguin today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change my WhatsApp number?
Yes, WhatsApp allows you to change your number without losing chats or groups. Use the Change Number feature in Settings > Account to update your number smoothly.
Will my contacts be notified when I change my number?
You can choose whether to notify contacts. WhatsApp updates your number in groups automatically, but individual notifications depend on your preference during the number change process.
How do I change my WhatsApp Business number without losing customers?
Update your number in WhatsApp Business settings and inform customers via broadcast messages, automated replies, or status updates. Keeping your business number updated across platforms prevents missed messages.
Can BotPenguin help manage WhatsApp Business communication?
Yes, BotPenguin automates customer interactions on WhatsApp, handling FAQs, appointment bookings, and lead management. It ensures seamless communication even when switching numbers.
What happens to my old number after changing it on WhatsApp?
Your old number is removed from WhatsApp servers. Contacts can no longer reach you there, so updating your number on business listings and customer databases is essential.
