Changing your app’s name in iTunes Connect can be a crucial step for branding, marketing, or simply correcting a mistake. Many developers wonder whether it’s possible to update the app name after submission and what implications such a change might have.
The process involves understanding Apple’s guidelines and the limitations imposed by the App Store infrastructure. Whether you’re launching a fresh app or updating an existing one, knowing how to navigate these rules can save you time and frustration.
Apple’s ecosystem maintains strict control over app metadata, including the app name displayed on the App Store. This name plays a vital role in visibility, searchability, and user perception.
If you consider changing the app name, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the potential impact on your app’s identity and discoverability. In some cases, a name change might require submitting a new version or even a new app listing altogether.
Understanding the nuances of renaming your app within iTunes Connect is more than just a technical detail; it can influence your app’s success and user engagement. Let’s explore the possibilities, limitations, and best practices when it comes to changing your app’s name on Apple’s platform.
Understanding App Naming in iTunes Connect
Before attempting to change your app’s name, it’s important to understand how Apple manages app names within its ecosystem. The name you see on the App Store is tied to your app’s metadata and has specific constraints.
Apple requires app names to be unique within the App Store, which means two apps cannot share the same name in the same category. This uniqueness helps users distinguish between apps and avoid confusion.
The app name is limited to 30 characters, so concise and effective naming is key.
Additionally, the app name you set in iTunes Connect is not necessarily the name that appears on the user’s device home screen. That is controlled by the app’s bundle display name, which is set in the app’s Xcode project.
Key Considerations for App Names
- Uniqueness: The app name must be unique across the App Store.
- Character Limit: Limited to 30 characters, including spaces.
- Metadata Tied: The name is part of the app’s public metadata.
- Device Name: Controlled separately from the App Store name.
“The app name is your brand’s first impression on the App Store — choose wisely and adhere to Apple’s guidelines.”
Can You Change Your App Name After Submission?
One of the most common questions developers ask is whether the app name can be changed after the app has been submitted or even published on the App Store. The answer is nuanced and depends on the app’s status.
Once your app is live on the App Store, you cannot change the app name independently without submitting an update. The app name is locked for the current version and will only update when you upload a new version through App Store Connect and specify the new name in the metadata.
This means changing the app name requires a new app version submission, which must pass Apple’s review process again. You cannot simply edit the name and push a change without review.
Changing Name vs. Creating New App
| Action | Can Change App Name? | Requires New Submission? | Impact on Users |
| Update Existing App Name | Yes, with new version | Yes, app update submission | Retains users and reviews |
| Create New App with New Name | Yes | Yes, new app submission | New app listing, no reviews |
“You can change your app’s name, but it requires submitting an updated version — it’s part of Apple’s quality assurance process.”
Step-by-Step Process to Change Your App Name
When you decide to change your app’s name, following the correct steps in iTunes Connect ensures a smooth transition. This process aligns with Apple’s policies and prevents common errors.
First, prepare a new version of your app in Xcode, ensuring all relevant metadata, including the version number, is updated. Then log in to App Store Connect and navigate to your app’s page.
Within the “App Information” section, update the app name field for the new version. Keep in mind that this name will be reviewed, so it must comply with Apple’s naming rules.
Detailed Steps
- Open your app project in Xcode and increment the version number.
- Update the app’s bundle display name if necessary.
- Archive and upload the new build to App Store Connect.
- In App Store Connect, go to “App Information” and update the app name for the new version.
- Submit the app update for Apple’s review.
“Patience is key — Apple’s review can take several days, so plan your app name change accordingly.”
Implications of Changing Your App Name
Changing an app’s name involves more than just updating text fields. It can affect your brand identity, search rankings, and user recognition.
Understanding these implications helps you make informed decisions.
A new name might refresh your app’s image or better target a different audience, but it can also confuse existing users who recognize the old name. Consider how the change will reflect in marketing materials, social media, and user reviews.
Search algorithms rely heavily on app names and keywords, so a name change could temporarily impact your app’s visibility. You may need to adjust your app’s keywords and description to account for the new name.
Potential Effects
- Brand Recognition: Risk losing current user familiarity.
- Search Rankings: Possible temporary drop in visibility.
- User Reviews: Reviews remain but may seem disconnected.
- Marketing: Update all external references to new name.
“A name change is a strategic move — weigh the potential gains against possible loss of recognition.”
Common Restrictions and Guidelines by Apple
Apple maintains strict guidelines regarding app names to ensure clarity, avoid confusion, and protect users. Violating these rules can lead to app rejection or removal from the App Store.
App names cannot include trademarked terms without permission, misleading phrases, or excessive use of keywords. Apple discourages names that are too generic or that attempt to manipulate search results.
Additionally, the app name must not contain inappropriate language, symbols, or special characters. These restrictions help maintain a professional and user-friendly App Store environment.
Summary of Naming Rules
| Rule | Description |
| No Trademark Infringement | Avoid using protected brand names without authorization. |
| Length Limit | Maximum 30 characters including spaces. |
| No Keyword Stuffing | Do not overload the name with unrelated keywords. |
| No Offensive Content | Names must be appropriate for all audiences. |
“Following Apple’s naming guidelines is essential to avoid rejection and maintain a strong App Store presence.”
How Changing the App Name Affects User Experience
From a user perspective, an app name is the primary identity they associate with your product. Changing it can lead to confusion if not communicated effectively.
Users who search for your app by the old name may struggle to find it after the change, especially if keywords and descriptions are not updated accordingly. Notifications about the change and updates to app screenshots can help mitigate confusion.
Maintaining consistency across all platforms, including your website and social media, is crucial to help users transition smoothly. A well-planned rebranding effort can turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth.
Tips for Improving User Experience
- Notify users within the app about the upcoming name change.
- Update all marketing channels to reflect the new name.
- Ensure search keywords and app description align with the new name.
- Gather user feedback post-change to address concerns promptly.
“Clear communication around an app name change can turn potential confusion into renewed user engagement.”
Alternatives to Changing Your App Name
If changing your app name seems too risky or complex, there are alternatives to consider that might achieve your goals without requiring a full renaming.
One option is to update the app’s icon and branding while keeping the original name intact, allowing for a fresh look without sacrificing recognition. Adjusting the app’s subtitle or promotional text can also help highlight new features or a rebranding effort.
In some cases, launching a companion app with a new name and linking it to your original app can be a strategy to test new branding without fully committing to a name change on the existing app.
Alternative Strategies
- Update App Icon: Refresh the visual identity without changing the name.
- Change Subtitle: Use the app subtitle to convey new messaging.
- Companion App: Release a new app with a different name.
- Marketing Campaigns: Rebrand externally while keeping the name.
“Sometimes subtle changes can be just as powerful as renaming your app.”
If you want to explore more about naming strategies and branding, check out our detailed explanation on Why Did Getaway Change Its Name? Reasons Explained and discover creative ideas in A Name for a Monster: Creative Ideas and Inspiration.
For a better grasp of character identity and naming, see our guide on A Pimp Named Slickback Katt Williams: Character Guide.
Maximizing the Impact of Your New App Name
Once your app name change is approved and live, maximizing its impact requires strategic marketing and careful monitoring. Your new name should strengthen your brand and attract new users effectively.
Review your app’s analytics to monitor changes in downloads, search traffic, and user engagement following the update. This data can guide further adjustments to your marketing strategy or app metadata.
Engage with your user community to gather feedback and promote the new name through social media campaigns, press releases, and collaborations. Consistency and enthusiasm in your messaging will help build momentum.
Post-Change Best Practices
- Track key performance indicators to evaluate the name change’s success.
- Communicate regularly with users about new features tied to the rebranding.
- Update all third-party listings and partner sites with the new app name.
- Consider running promotions or events to celebrate the new identity.
“A successful app name change is not just about the name itself but how you leverage it to renew your brand’s connection with users.”
Conclusion
Changing your app’s name in iTunes Connect is a feasible but involved process that requires careful planning and execution. Since the app name is a critical component of your app’s identity and discoverability, any change should be approached strategically.
You’ll need to submit a new app version to update the name, which means undergoing Apple’s review process once again.
The decision to rename should factor in potential impacts on user recognition, search rankings, and marketing efforts. Clear communication with your users and a comprehensive update to all branding materials will help ease the transition.
Sometimes, alternatives like refreshing your app’s icon or subtitle can achieve similar goals with less risk.
By understanding Apple’s guidelines and the implications of a name change, you can make informed decisions that enhance your app’s success. Remember that a name is more than just a label—it’s the gateway to user engagement and brand loyalty.
