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Skype is a popular communication app that lets you make video and voice calls, send instant messages, and share files with your friends and family around the world. When you sign up for Skype, you are given a unique Skype Name or ID to identify yourself on the platform. This name is permanent and cannot be changed easily, so it’s important to choose a name that you are comfortable with.
However, there may come a time when you want to change your Skype Name or Live ID on your Android device. Maybe you want to have a more professional username or you just want to start fresh with a new name. Whatever your reason may be, changing your Skype Name or Live ID is possible with a few simple steps.
In this blog post, we will walk you through different methods to change your Skype Name or Live ID on Android. We will also provide you with additional tips and address some frequently asked questions to help you with the process.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Changing Your Skype Name or Live ID on Android
Changing your Skype Name or Live ID on Android can be a bit of a challenge. Unfortunately, Skype does not offer a direct or easy way to change your Skype Name or Live ID within the mobile app. Unlike the desktop version, there is no option to edit your profile or change your username from the app settings.
This means that you will need to use different methods outside of the app to change your Skype Name or Live ID on your Android device. These methods involve using the Skype website, creating a new account, or connecting your Skype to your Microsoft account.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before starting the process of changing your Skype Name or Live ID on Android, there are a few things you should prepare for:
- Make sure to have a stable internet connection on your Android device.
- Have your Microsoft account credentials ready in case you need to use them.
- You may need to download and install the Microsoft Outlook app from the Google Play Store.
- Think carefully about your new Skype Name or Live ID before proceeding with the changes.
Method 1: Changing Your Skype Name or Live ID on the Skype Website
The easiest method to change your Skype Name or Live ID on Android is through the Skype website. Here are the steps to follow:
- Open the web browser on your Android device and go to the Skype website (https://www.skype.com/)
- Click on the Sign In button at the top right corner of the website.
- Enter your Skype Name or Live ID and password to login to your account.
- Once logged in, click on your Skype Name or ID at the top left corner of the screen. This will open a dropdown menu.
- Select the Profile option from the dropdown menu.
- On the Profile page, click on the Edit Profile button.
- Here, you can change your Skype Name or Live ID by editing the box next to it. Once done, click on the Save button at the bottom of the page.
- Your Skype Name or Live ID should now be updated to the new name you chose.
Pros:
- Easy and straightforward method to change your Skype Name or Live ID on Android.
- You can change your Skype Name or Live ID without losing your contacts or chat history.
Cons:
- You need to use a web browser on your Android device to access the Skype website.
- You will need to log in to your Skype account multiple times to complete the process.
- You may need to wait up to 72 hours for the changes to reflect on your account and contacts’ devices.
Method 2: Creating a New Skype Account
If you don’t want to change your current Skype Name or Live ID on Android, another option is to create a new account with a different username. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Skype app on your Android device and click on the Sign In button.
- Click on the Create Account button at the bottom of the screen.
- Enter your phone number or email address to create a new account.
- Choose a new Skype Name or Live ID for your account. Make sure it’s still available by checking the availability status next to the username.
- Set a new password for your account and fill in your personal details if required.
- Complete the verification process by providing the code sent to your phone number or email address.
- Once done, you will have a new Skype account with a new Skype Name or Live ID.
Pros:
- You can create a new Skype account with a new username without losing your contacts or chat history in your old account.
- You can have multiple Skype accounts for different purposes or identities.
Cons:
- You will need to download and install the Skype app again on your Android device to access your new account.
- You may need to manually add your contacts and start new conversations in your new account.
- You will need to switch between your old and new accounts to communicate with different contacts and manage messages.
Method 3: Connecting Your Skype to Your Microsoft Account
The last method to change your Skype Name or Live ID on Android is by connecting your Skype account to your Microsoft account. This method requires you to have a Microsoft account and may involve merging two accounts into one. Follow these steps to connect your Skype to your Microsoft account:
- Open the Skype app on your Android device and click on the Sign In button.
- Enter your Skype Name or Live ID and password to log in to your account.
- Click on your profile picture or initials at the top left corner of the screen to open the Account page.
- Scroll down to the Account settings section and click on the Connect with a Microsoft account option.
- Follow the prompts to link your Skype account with your Microsoft account.
- If you have two accounts with different usernames, you may be asked to merge them into one account.
- Choose the new Skype Name or Live ID you want to use from your Microsoft account settings.
- Once done, your Skype account should be updated to the new name you chose.
Pros:
- You can use your Microsoft account login credentials to access Skype on your Android device.
- You can change your Skype Name or Live ID by updating your Microsoft account settings.
- You can easily switch between different Microsoft services and apps using the same username.
Cons:
- You need to have a Microsoft account to connect with your Skype account.
- You may need to merge two Skype accounts with different usernames to use the same Microsoft account.
- You may need to log out and log in again to update your Skype Name or Live ID after linking your accounts.
Why Can’t I Change My Skype Name or Live ID?
There could be several reasons why you are unable to change your Skype Name or Live ID on Android. Some common reasons include:
Q1: I don’t see an option to edit my profile on Skype.
A: Unfortunately, the Skype app for Android does not offer an option to edit your profile or change your username within the app settings. You will need to use one of the methods mentioned above to change your Skype Name or Live ID outside of the app.
Q2: I tried creating a new account, but it says my phone number or email address is already in use.
A: This error message means that you have already created a Skype account using the same phone number or email address. You can recover your account by resetting your password or contacting Skype support for further assistance.
Q3: I connected my Skype account to my Microsoft account, but the changes are not showing on my Android device.
A: Sometimes it may take some time for the changes to reflect on your account and devices. Wait for at least 24-48 hours and try logging out and logging in again to your Skype account on your Android device.
Q4: My username is inappropriate or violates Skype’s terms of service.
A: If your username is deemed inappropriate or violates Skype’s community guidelines and policies, you may not be able to change it. In this case, you can create a new account with a different username that complies with Skype’s rules.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when changing your Skype Name or Live ID on Android:
- Choose a username that represents you or your brand well.
- Avoid using special characters, symbols, or offensive words in your username.
- Inform your contacts about your new username to avoid confusion or missed messages.
- Make sure to update your username in your email signature, business cards, and social media profiles if necessary.
5 FAQs about Changing Skype Name Live ID on Android
Q1: Can I have multiple Skype accounts on my Android device?
A: Yes, you can have multiple Skype accounts on your Android device by signing in with different usernames or creating new accounts. However, you need to switch between accounts to access different contacts and conversations.
Q2: Do I need to pay to change my Skype Name or Live ID?
A: No, changing your Skype Name or Live ID is free of charge and can be done anytime. However, some features like phone calling or Skype credit may require payment.
Q3: What happens to my contacts and chat history when I change my Skype Name or Live ID?
A: Your contacts and chat history should remain intact even if you change your Skype Name or Live ID. However, it may take some time for the changes to reflect on your contacts’ devices.
Q4: Can I change my Skype Name or Live ID on the desktop version?
A: Yes, you can change your Skype Name or Live ID on the desktop version by clicking on your profile picture or initials, selecting Settings, and choosing your Profile settings. The process may vary depending on your operating system.
Q5: How long does it take for the changes to take effect?
A: It may take up to 72 hours for the changes to reflect on your account and contacts’ devices. However, in most cases, the changes should be visible within a few hours.
In Conclusion
Changing your Skype Name or Live ID on Android can be a bit challenging, but with the right methods and preparation, it can be done easily. Whether you choose to change your username through the Skype website, create a new account, or connect your Skype to your Microsoft account, make sure to follow the steps and pros and cons of each method.
Remember that your username represents you on the platform, so choose wisely and keep it professional. If you have any further questions or issues, you can always refer to the FAQs or contact Skype support for assistance.