Did you know that a phone number is mandatory for creating a LINE account? A phone number is more than just registration info; it is the most critical key for identity verification, account recovery, and transferring your data during a device upgrade.
In this article, we explain the indispensable role of the phone number in LINE and the correct steps to change your number without losing your account. Whether you are switching carriers or getting a new device, use this guide to maintain your precious LINE account safely.
The Role of Phone Numbers on LINE and Policy on Changes
1. Is a Phone Number Mandatory for LINE?
Under current LINE policies, a phone number is, in principle, mandatory for all users.
| Aspect | Description |
| New Registration | A phone number is required for identity verification (SMS authentication) when creating an account. |
| Account Recovery | It serves as the primary verification method if you forget your password or need to transfer your account to a new device. |
| Adding Friends | It forms the basis of the “Auto Add Friends” feature, which automatically syncs people from your phone’s contact list to your LINE friends. |
Note: In the past, there were “workarounds” such as creating an account using only Facebook linkage. However, due to strengthened security and stricter identity verification, a phone number is now essentially required for all new accounts.
2. Can You Change Your Registered Phone Number?
Yes. You can change your registered phone number while keeping your account intact. However, the process requires you to complete an SMS authentication (identity verification) using your new phone number.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Phone Number
You can easily update your number from within the LINE app settings:
- Open the LINE Home tab and tap Settings (gear icon).
- Tap Account.
- Tap the section where your current phone number is displayed to proceed to the “Change Phone Number” screen.
- Enter your new phone number, then input the verification code sent to you via SMS to complete the process.
⚠️ Important Considerations
- Transfer Settings Not Required: If you are changing your phone number on the same device, you do not need to toggle the “Allow Account Transfer” setting to ON.
- Chat History is Safe: Changing your phone number does not delete your chat history, friends, or groups, as it is still the same account.
- When Changing Devices Simultaneously: If you are changing your phone number and your device at the same time, it is smoother to update the phone number on your old device first, then perform the “Account Transfer” on the new device.
