How to Change an Instagram Username Easily on Any Device

Can you change your Instagram username

Yes, you are allowed to change your username on Instagram at any time. However, it is still very important to know the difference between your Instagram name and your username. The name that your Instagram refers to is the display name, which is indicated on your profile and posts, and it doesn't have to be unique. On the other hand, your Instagram username (or your Instagram handle) is a one-of-a-kind and is used for signing in, tagging, and mentions. Technically, "Instagram handle" and "Instagram username" are just two different ways to refer to the same thing.

Meanwhile, there are some restrictions and regulations by Instagram regarding username changes:

• The username should be new and not used by any other account.
• You can use a combination of letters, numbers, dots, and underscores only.
• Along with that, the length of the usernames is capped at 30 characters.
• As a result of altering your old username, it may not be the only available one that others can reclaim immediately.

This is how you can make sure that your new username is acceptable, easily identifiable, and in line with Instagram's rules.

Prerequisites for changing your Instagram username

Before changing your Instagram name, you should check that you are compliant with some very necessary requirements:

• Your account can be public or private; both types can change their usernames without restrictions.
• The new username has to be 3 to 30 characters long and consists of only letters, numbers, and underscores. No special characters or spaces are allowed.
• Do not use offensive words, trademarks, or impersonate someone else because Instagram might identify and remove your username.

Availability check: To prevent frustration, utilize Instagram's search tool to verify that the username you want is free at the moment. In case the name is already taken, you will have to adjust it a bit until a suitable option is found.

Warning: Remember that the moment you change your old username, it will be released immediately for anyone else to get it. Therefore, if your former username was popular or part of your brand, you might consider informing your followers or transferring it to another account before you make the change.

How to change your Instagram username on mobile

Changing your Instagram username on a mobile is a fast and effective way to change your online identity, keep up with the trend, or show a change in your personal brand. With just a few simple steps, you can have your handle not only reflect your current style but also be in compliance with Instagram's guidelines. Here is a simple and professional guide on how to change your Instagram username:

STEP 1
1. Access your profile

Launch the Instagram app on your iOS or Android device and tap your profile icon in the bottom right corner. Then select "Edit profile."

STEP 2
1. Update your username

Enter a new username that best describes you in the field of "Username." Make sure it is unique, adheres to Instagram's username character rules, and does not contain any offensive or impersonating terms.

STEP 3
1. Save and confirm

To save the change, tap "Done" or the checkmark. If the username is available, Instagram will update your profile instantly; if not, make a slight adjustment and try again.

How to change your Instagram username on desktop

An easy way to change your Instagram username on desktop is through the desktop app or web browser. Consequently, you can outfit your profile using any location, at your convenience. The process is the same on both platforms, so the one that suits your work better is up to you. Here's how to change your Instagram username on desktop:

STEP 1
1. Access your profile

Use your web browser or desktop app to log into Instagram. Go to the top right corner, click on your profile picture, and choose Profile > Edit profile.

STEP 2
1. Open edit profile settings

Click on "Accounts Center." Find the "Username" field to be able to make the change.

STEP 3
1. Update and save your username

Type in your new username that you want, make sure it is unique and in line with Instagram's guidelines. To make the change, click "Done." If the name has already been taken, Instagram will notify you to select another one.

After changing your Instagram username, this is a great opportunity to revamp your profile and energize your followers. With CapCut desktop, you can make compelling Instagram posts just by using the straightforward editing tools, templates, and effects to create striking visuals that not only match your new handle but also attract more visits to your profile.

Create engaging Instagram posts with CapCut desktop

Designing eye-catching Instagram posts that reflect your personal style or brand identity has never been easier than with the CapCut desktop video editor. The easy and user-friendly drag-and-drop interface of this video editor lets you make quick edits, while the animated text, stickers, and effects draw attention to your posts among other users' posts. Moreover, with the help of video templates, transitions, and filters, everyone, even the newbies, can make content that looks professional and engages their followers. Take your Instagram content to the next level, download CapCu today, and start creating eye-catching posts that elevate your profile and engage your audience.

Key features

• Ready-made video templates: Quickly start your Instagram content creation using CapCut's professionally designed video templates with diverse topics that save time and enhance creativity.
• Creative visual elements: There are lots of creative visual elements in CapCut. You can add animated stickers, dynamic text, video transitions, and filters to make your posts visually appealing.
• AI tools: Leverage AI-powered features like auto captions, text to speech, and background removal to streamline Instagram video editing and boost accessibility.
• Music library: Access a wide range of royalty-free tracks to enhance the mood of your Instagram videos and create a captivating audio-visual experience.

How to create Instagram posts with CapCut

STEP 1
1. Import media

Open CapCut and upload your images or video clips. You can drag and drop files directly into the workspace or use the import option to add your media. For Instagram reels or stories, adjust the video ratio to 9:16.

STEP 2
1. Edit and customize the video

Use the toolbar above the workspace to enhance your post. Add effects, transitions, music, stickers, and text, and customize each element to match your style. You can also scale, rotate, and adjust video parameters from the right panel to create polished, eye-catching visuals that stand out on Instagram.

STEP 3
1. Export the video for Instagram

Once your post is ready, click "Export" and select high-quality Instagram settings. Adjust options like frame rate, resolution, and bitrate as needed, then export your video.

Special cases and troubleshooting with IG name change

In most cases, changing your Instagram username should be a simple task. However, there are some special cases where you will definitely need some extra time or even help from the support team:

• Username not available: If the name you want is already taken, the system will notify you as such. By using numbers, underscores, or slight differences, you could come up with a unique but still easily identifiable username.
• You changed username recently: Instagram only allows 2 display name changes per account within 14 days (no specific limit defined for username). Thus, to be able to change your display name again, you will have to wait for the time left in the cooldown period to run out. On the other hand, in case of multiple username changes, the account might go into the review process.
• Error messages: Situations such as "Invalid Characters" or network errors might cause the update process to stop. Thus, before trying again, you need to make sure that the username consists of only letters, numbers, or underscores and that your internet connection is stable.
• Username rejected: Instagram user names could be declined if they have special characters, spaces, or are longer than 30 characters. Making your name into one that is per these rules is the easiest way to get it accepted.

Tips for choosing the best Instagram username

• Keep it simple and memorable

Try to come up with a name that is easy to spell, pronounce, and remember. Users with simple usernames are more likely to remember them, and thus it will be easier for your account to be found.

• Avoid unnecessary numbers or symbols

It is better not to use numbers, underscores, or special characters unless they are part of your branding, as they can make your username more difficult to remember and type.

• Check availability across platforms

Make sure that the username you want to use is also free on other social media platforms like TikTok, Twitter, or YouTube. It is always better to have the same name on all platforms because it makes your personal or brand identity stronger.

• Include brand-relevant keywords

Include some keywords related to your niche, business, or personal brand. As a result, your username becomes more descriptive, searchable, and professional.

• Update linked services and inform followers

If you have changed your username, make sure that you have updated all the accounts that are connected to the old one, and let your followers know to avoid confusion. This guarantees that engagement will be smooth and your online presence will be maintained on all different channels.

Conclusion

When done right on your mobile or desktop app, changing your Instagram username is a quick and hassle-free process. Your username is an essential part of the composition of your personal or brand identity, and for that, the name of your online presence must be catchy, singular, and in line with your online presence. After changing your Instagram handle, you can still revamp your feed with CapCut by creating eye-catching posts, Reels, and Stories that represent your new brand identity and draw in your audience. Don't wait any longer to revamp your profile on Instagram, change your username, and take advantage of CapCut to bring your content to life!

FAQs

1
1. Why is Instagram rejecting my new username?

If a username is already taken, has special characters or spaces, is more than 30 characters long, or in some way violates community guidelines, Instagram will not accept it. Check whether your desired handle is unique and complies with the rules, and try again. After you successfully change your username, you can use CapCut to create content that represents your new profile.

2
1. Can I switch back to my old Instagram username?

You are allowed to revert, but consider that somebody else could have already taken your old username. If it is still available, just follow the usual steps to change your username. Upon returning to your previous username, you might want to use CapCut to update your posts and stories to match your restored handle.

3
1. How do I check if an Instagram username is available?

Do a username search on Instagram before actually changing your username. You can also attempt to type the name in the Edit Profile > Username section; Instagram will give you a message if the username is taken. Checking availability beforehand allows you to keep your username the same on different platforms and makes using CapCut for branded content creation easier.