How to Get a New Username on Discord

Discord has recently announced that they will be rolling out major changes to their username system over the next few months. Previously, Discord usernames were case-sensitive and ended with a four-digit discriminator (e.g. JohnDoe#1234). Now, Discord is moving to a new system with unique, lowercase usernames without discriminators (e.g. johndoe).

This update aims to simplify Discord usernames and make it easier for users to identify and connect with friends on the platform. However, the change means that you‘ll need to claim your preferred username before someone else takes it.

In this comprehensive guide as a social media marketing expert, you‘ll learn everything about Discord‘s new usernames:

What Are Unique Usernames on Discord?

Here‘s what you need to know about Discord‘s new username system:

No more discriminators – The random four digit numbers after usernames (e.g. #1234) will be removed. Usernames will just be a single word or phrase.
Lowercase only – All new usernames on Discord will be in lowercase. If your current name has uppercase letters, these will be converted to lowercase when you change to the new format.
Unique usernames – Every username on Discord will now be unique. No two users can share the same username.

According to Discord, there are over 150 million active users on the platform. With unique names, creativity and speed will be key to get the username you want.
2-32 characters – New usernames must be between 2-32 characters long. One letter names are not allowed.
Alphanumeric + limited special characters – Usernames can only include letters, numbers, underscores, dashes, dots, apostrophes, and parentheses. No other symbols are allowed.
Identify friends easily – Without discriminators, it will be much easier to identify and add friends by their preferred names.

In my experience managing social media for businesses, simplicity and recognizability in usernames creates a more seamless user experience. Discord‘s changes align with industry best practices.

Overall, these changes aim to simplify Discord usernames and improve the user experience. As a marketing expert, unique usernames also allow users to better control and express their identity on the platform.

When Can I Get a New Username on Discord?

Discord is gradually rolling out the ability to change your username over the next few months. Here‘s the detailed timeline:

Early Access
- Server owners and partners – This group got early access starting in late August 2022. There are over 21 million Discord servers, so millions of users were eligible here.
Old Nitro subscribers
- Users who subscribed to Nitro before 2022 – This group started getting access in September 2022. Nitro has over 250,000 subscribers according to Discord.
Account age
- Oldest accounts created in 2015 – Access will be granted based on account creation date, with the oldest joining Discord in 2015 getting priority, then 2016 and on.
  - There are approximately 35 million Discord accounts created in 2015.
  - Accounts from 2016-2020 will get access next throughout late 2022. There are tens of millions more created during this period.
- Remaining users – All other accounts will be notified over the next few months after older accounts are converted.
Expected completion – The rollout is expected to finish in early 2023 based on the above timeline.

To get notified as soon as you can claim your new username, join the Discord Previews server. This will alert you when your specific account is eligible.

You‘ll receive an in-app notification from Discord when it‘s your turn. Let‘s look at how to change your username when that happens.

How to Get a New Username on Desktop

When your account is eligible, follow these simple steps to change your username on desktop:

Open the Discord desktop app or discord.com in your browser.
Click the gear icon in the bottom left to open User Settings.
In the sidebar, click My Account.
Next to your current username, click Edit.
A pop-up will appear prompting you to choose a new username.
Type your desired new username and click the blue Change Username button.

That‘s it! Your username will now update to the new format without the discriminator. Make sure to pick a name you love, since you can only change it once for free.

How to Get a New Username on Mobile

Here are the steps to change your username on the Discord mobile app when notified:

Open the Discord app and tap your profile picture in the bottom right.
Tap the Settings and Privacy button.
Tap Account.
Tap on your current username under Username.
A pop-up will appear – type your new desired username and tap Change Username.

You‘ve now claimed your unique new Discord username on mobile! It‘s just a few quick taps.

Choosing Your New Discord Username

With Discord removing duplicates, you‘ll want to choose your new username carefully. Here are some expert tips as a social media marketing professional:

Brainstorm – Make a list of username options that fit your personality or interests. Get creative!
Simplicity – Short, simple names like john or sam are most memorable. But ensure availability.
Add characters – Using underscores, dots or dashes can make a common name unique, like john_ or sarah-j.
Avoid numbers – Usernames with numbers look messy, like john1234. Stick to letters and limited symbols.
Meaning – If a name has special meaning for you, go for it! Names with significance are powerful.
Branding – Leverage your username for personal branding if you stream or create content. Memorable names drive impact.
Research competitors – Study usernames of influencers in your niche for inspiration. Derivatives of popular names work well.

Now let‘s look at the best ways to check if a username is available.

Checking Discord Username Availability

Discord does not have an official username check tool yet. However, third-party sites have created useful availability checkers:

Discord Username Checker

Discord Username Checker lets you enter up to 10 names at once to instantly check availability. It will tell you which are already taken on Discord.

discord.id

discord.id is another excellent option that allows single username checks. Just enter the name and it will confirm if it‘s available.

DiscordServers Username Checker

For bulk checks, DiscordServers‘ checker lets you enter unlimited usernames in a list to verify their availability. This is useful when brainstorming multiple options.

Manually Trying Usernames

You can also double check by manually trying to change your username to your desired name in Discord‘s settings. This is the only 100% verification, in case third-party tools have inaccurate or delayed data.

Use a combination of these tools to create a shortlist of great username options you confirm are available. Have 3-5 backups ready in case your first choice gets claimed unexpectedly.

What If My Preferred Username Is Taken?

With unique usernames, it‘s very likely your first choice won‘t be available. Here are some tips if someone else claims the name:

Try adding extra characters like dots, dashes or underscores – johnsmith, john.smith john_smith.
Slightly change the spelling – jon, jahn, johnathan.
Add numbers if you have to, but avoid long strings like john1234. Go for something like john2 or john_2.
Try a completely different name related to your interests. Get creative and brainstorm fresh ideas.
Set up username notifications on availability checkers to grab it if it becomes available again. Users do change names.

While it‘s frustrating when someone takes your preferred name, look at it as an opportunity to refresh your identity on Discord! With some strategic flexibility, you can find an even better, more memorable username.

Conclusion

Discord‘s shift to unique usernames will take some getting used to. But the changes streamline user identity on the platform.

To recap the key points:

Discord is removing discriminators and duplications over 2022-2023. Check your account age and Discord Previews to track eligibility.
Use Discord‘s settings to claim your new name when notified. Act quickly, as competition will be fierce.
Brainstorm multiple options and confirm availability. Have backups ready.
Make your new username memorable and optimized for discovery. Consider branding opportunities.

As a social media expert, I recommend moving fast when your turn comes up. With a thoughtful selection process, you can stand out with a clean, unique Discord identity. This guide provides the steps and strategies you need to make that happen. Good luck picking your perfect new username!