Discord’s Latest Update: Mandatory Username Change Explained

Discord Username Change Explained

According to Discord, users will be prompted to change their usernames to something new that does not include the numerals (User#123). Discord usernames currently have a set of numbers attached to them (discriminators). The post went on to say that the change will make it simpler for users to “identify and connect with your friends” and that the newly selected usernames for Discord would be specific to each user.

Discord: Mandatory Username Change Explained

All Discord users will be able to change their usernames to new ones (@username) without discriminators in the coming weeks.

  • Usernames must be in lowercase (a-z). Uppercase will no longer be allowed. You can also include:  
    • Numbers
    • Special characters allowed: underscore (_) and period (.)
  • Username Restrictions:
    1. Must be 2-32 characters long
    2. Usernames must follow Community Guidelines
  • Usernames that are not permitted:
    1. Discord Staff names, known individuals, groups, or organization
    2. Usernames that promote hate
    3. Contains sexually explicit language
  • How many times can you change your username?
    • It is included in the said blog that you can change it every 2 hours

When will Username Change take effect?

  • The longer your Discord account has been active, the earlier you will be able to change your username. A user who has had their Discord account for longer years will be prioritized.
  • You will be notified once you’re eligible to change your account’s username. The notification will also include a guide on how you can change your username.

Why did the Devs change the username system?

  • According to Discord, more than 40% of users tend to forget their discriminator and nearly half of all friend requests fail to connect users owing to inaccurate or invalid username entries. To solve these and improve user experience, the platform has then determined that a comprehensive and long-term solution is required.
  • It is explained in the blog that it would be easier for users to connect with friends and will have more control over their identity. Some users tend to have a hard time finding their buddies because of their complex usernames. And on Twitter, they have expressed their concerns about the new change, claiming that it will not only make it more difficult for users to find you but may also put people’s privacy at risk when using Discord.

In conclusion, Discord is implementing a mandatory username change that will prompt all users to choose a unique username without the said discriminator numbers. As for the new usernames, lowercase letters with the option to include numbers (0-9), underscores(_), and periods(.) will soon be implemented for all users.

The Discord team aims that this change will improve user experience and will make connecting to other users easier. Only time will tell if this new system will be more convenient for users worldwide.


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