How to change the name of your iPhone

Your iPhone is more than just a device. In today’s increasingly interconnected world, it’s an extension of you. Bearing in mind how it still is one amongst a sea of iPhones though, giving it a unique name can make it feel truly yours, whether you want to add a touch of personality or distinguish it from other devices. Changing your iPhone’s name is a simple process that can be done in just a few taps. Here’s how to go about it. 

Why change your iPhone’s name?

Before we take a look at how to go about changing your iPhone’s name though, it would perhaps be a good idea to also look at just why you may want to do so. There are many reasons why you might want to change your iPhone’s name.  

ALSO READ: Evolution of the iPhone: How Apple built the poster boy for smartphones 

Personalisation is a key factor, as you may want to give your iPhone a nickname that reflects your personality or interests. Differentiation is another reason, especially if you have multiple Apple devices or share your space with other iPhone users. Unique names can help avoid confusion.  

Clear and distinct names also aid in organisation, making it easier to manage your devices, particularly when using iCloud or other Apple services. Additionally, using a generic name like “iPhone” might reveal your device type to others on public networks, and a custom name can enhance your privacy. Lastly, sometimes, it’s just fun to change things up and give your phone a new identity. 

Step-by-step guide to changing your iPhone’s name

Now that we have why you should consider changing your Apple iPhone’s name out of the way, let’s take a look at how to go about doing the same. The process is pretty straightforward, and can be done directly from your device’s settings. Follow these simple steps: 

1. Locate the ‘Settings’ app on your iPhone’s home screen. It’s the icon that typically looks like a gear or cogwheel. 

2. Scroll down the Settings menu and tap on ‘General.’ 

3. In the ‘General’ settings, you’ll find an option that says ‘About’ at the top of the list. Tap on it to proceed. 

ALSO READ: 5 ways to protect your iPhone screen from all kinds of damage

4. The first option under ‘About’ will be ‘Name.’ Tap on this option to access the current name of your iPhone. 

5. Tap on the ‘x’ button next to your iPhone’s current name to delete it. Then, type in the new name you’d like to use. Be creative and choose a name that suits you! 

6. Once you’ve entered the new name, tap on ‘Done’ or simply tap outside of the name field on the screen to save your changes. 

Where your new name will appear

After you’ve changed your iPhone’s name, the new name will appear in several places. In your settings, the ‘Name’ field under the ‘About’ section will reflect the change. On iCloud, your iPhone will be identified with its new name on iCloud.com and in other iCloud-connected apps. When sharing files via AirDrop, your iPhone will be visible to other devices with its new name. Similarly, in Bluetooth settings on other devices, your iPhone will appear with its updated name. Additionally, when you share your iPhone’s internet connection using personal hotspot, the network name will display your iPhone’s new name. 

Troubleshooting tips

If you encounter any issues while changing your iPhone’s name, a few simple troubleshooting tips might help. First, try restarting your iPhone, as a simple restart can often fix minor glitches.  

ALSO READ: How to use your iPhone as a webcam: A step-by-step guide

Ensure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS by checking for updates. If the problem persists, consider resetting your network settings by going to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This step will reset your network settings without affecting your personal data. 

Changing your iPhone’s name might seem like a minor tweak, but it can have a significant impact on how you interact with your device. Whether you’re personalising it, distinguishing it from others, or simply having some fun, giving your iPhone a unique name is a simple way to make it truly yours. Follow the steps in this guide, and you will have your iPhone rechristened in no time.