Snapchat users often wish to change their username for various reasons – maybe their original name is outdated, uncreative, or they just want to rebrand. But while Snapchat allows you to change your display name, changing your actual username is restricted.
Here are some quick answers about why you can’t change your Snapchat username:
- Usernames are unique identifiers – Snapchat uses usernames to identify accounts, so they need to remain constant.
- Usernames define your URL – Your Snapchat URL is tied to your username, so changing it would break existing links.
- Prevents abuse – Fixed usernames prevent users from constantly changing to dodge bans or harass others.
- Technical limitations – Snapchat’s infrastructure relies on fixed identifiers, making username changes difficult.
While you can’t change your main username, there are a couple of workarounds that allow you to modify your identity on Snapchat:
Why Snapchat Doesn’t Allow Username Changes
Snapchat has designed their platform around each user having a unique, permanent username. This username acts as your account’s identifier and allows you to have a custom URL that other users can search for and add. There are a few key reasons why Snapchat does not allow you to change your username after creating your account:
Usernames are Unique Identifiers
First and foremost, usernames are meant to act as unique identifiers on Snapchat. Your username is essentially the name of your account, similar to an account number. Allowing users to change their usernames would result in duplicate names, making accounts harder to identify. Snapchat uses your unchanging username to:
- Link your account across devices – You can log in on mobile or web using your username.
- Recognize you between sessions – Your username remains constant even if you log out.
- Identify your account for bans or violations – Snapchat can track inappropriate behavior to specific accounts.
- Confirm your identity for password resets – Your username verifies who you are if you forget your password.
Usernames must remain static for Snapchat to reliably recognize accounts across platforms and over time. Allowing username changes would dilute this vital identifier.
Usernames Define Your Custom URL
Additionally, each Snapchat account is given a custom URL based on the unique username. For example, if your username is “funnyvideos”, your Snapchat URL would be snapchat.com/add/funnyvideos. This link allows other users to search for your account and add you as a friend.
If Snapchat allowed you to change your username, it would break any existing URLs that people may have shared or bookmarked. People who looked up your old custom URL would no longer be able to find your updated account. Avoiding broken links is a major reason why Snapchat locks in your username.
Prevents Abuse of Username Changes
Snapchat also wants to prevent abusive behavior that could arise from changing usernames. For example, users who get banned could continually create new accounts with different names, avoiding consequences. Users could also harass others under various usernames, adopting a new identity each time their old username gets blocked.
By locking usernames, Snapchat can better moderate inappropriate activity and tie violations to specific accounts. One-time username selection helps prevent ganging up or evading bans.
Technical/Infrastructure Limitations
Finally, allowing username changes would require significant engineering work on Snapchat’s part. Their systems have been built around the premise of fixed, permanent usernames. Key databases like the username directory would need overhauling to support changes.
Rather than rebuild infrastructure to support mutable usernames, Snapchat has prioritized other features like Stories, AR lenses, etc. Constant username changes are not considered important enough to dedicate resources towards.
Workarounds for Modifying Your Snapchat Identity
While fully changing your username is restricted by Snapchat, there are a couple workarounds that allow you to modify your identity:
Change Your Display Name
Snapchat does allow you to change your display name – the name friends see when chatting or viewing your stories. Unlike your username, you can modify your display name an unlimited number of times.
To change it:
- Tap your profile icon in the top left of the Snapchat screen
- Tap the settings gear icon
- Tap your current display name
- Enter the new name you want to display
Updating your display name helps give you a fresh identity. Though your username remains unchanged, a different display name helps you rebrand.
Start a New Account
If you really want a completely new username, the nuclear option is to start a brand new Snapchat account. You’ll get a blank slate with no ties to your old identity.
The downside is you’ll lose your chat history, Memories, and Snapstreaks. You’d have to add all your friends again. It takes more work starting fresh, but it does let you pick a brand new username.
Here are steps for creating a new account:
- Uninstall the Snapchat app and reinstall it to reset the application.
- Provide your basic information like name, email, birthdate to setup the new account.
- Select a new unique username not used on your old account.
- Find and add friends either by username, phone number, or QR code.
Essentially, creating a new account mimics signing up for Snapchat as a new user. You abandon your old profile for a clean slate.
Why Snapchat Usernames Can’t Be Recycled
Since Snapchat doesn’t allow inactive usernames to be recycled, you might wonder why old usernames can’t be reassigned to new users. There are a few reasons inactive Snapchat usernames remain locked:
Prevents Identity Confusion
If old usernames were recycled, two different users could end up having the same name. This would lead to identity confusion when trying to lookup or add friends. You might accidentally add the new user who claimed your old friend’s username.
By keeping usernames locked, Snapchat avoids potential mix-ups between old and new accounts.
Honors Inactive Accounts
Snapchat also wants to honor accounts that have gone inactive. Users may have put years of memories and conversations into their old usernames. Recycling them for different users seems disrespectful to those accounts’ legacy.
Locking down inactive usernames preserves their identity and the effort users put into customizing them.
Avoids Username Squatting
Finally, preventing username recycling helps avoid issues around “username squatting” – when people grab sought-after usernames with no intention of using them. If coveted names like “John” or “Sara” were released, opportunistic squatters would claim them without building an account.
By locking down inactive names, Snapchat ensures legitimate users claim names they’ll actually use.
Tips for Picking a Good Snapchat Username
Since you only get one shot to pick your permanent Snapchat username, it helps to know criteria for choosing a good one from the start. Here are some tips for selecting your username:
Keep it Short
Shorter 1-word names are best for an easy-to-remember username. “Alex” is better than “Alex12345”.
Use Real Name Basis
Basing your name off some form of your real first or last name makes it obvious who you are to friends.
Add Favorites or Interests
Spice up a basic name by adding favorites like “SkiingSarah” or “GuitarTom”.
Try Unique Word Combos
Combine unusual words like “SunsetSeagull” or “MountainDreamer” for creative ideas.
Check Availability First
Test any names you’re considering to see if they’re still available to claim.
Avoid Anything Offensive
Steer clear of vulgarities, slurs, or inappropriate suggestions – Snapchat bans these.
With some thoughtfulness and planning, you can pick a Snapchat username you’ll be happy representing you for years to come!
Conclusion
Snapchat forces users to stick with their original usernames due to the nature of how the platform identifies accounts. Usernames act as unique IDs that must remain static to properly track users across devices and services. Snapchat also restricts changes to combat harassment and abuse of the system. While you can’t alter your core username, updating your display name does allow some flexibility in reshaping your identity.
At the end of the day, putting thought into selecting a quality username when you first signup goes a long way. Your username represents you, so pick something you’ll be proud of for the long haul.