Changing the name of an app can be a critical step whether you’re a developer preparing for launch or someone customizing an app for personal use. The app name is the first impression users get and it often influences their decision to download or engage with the app.
instructions for popular development environments and platforms such as Android Studio, Xcode, and web applications.
Why Change the Name of an App?
Rebranding: Sometimes, businesses want to reposition their product in the market with a new identity.
Correcting mistakes: The initial app name might contain typos or may not reflect the app’s purpose clearly.
Localization: You might want to change the app name to suit different languages or cultural contexts.
Legal reasons: Trademark conflicts or copyright issues may necessitate a name change.
“An app’s name is more than just a label; it is a key part of its identity and marketing strategy.”
Changing App Name in Android (Using Android Studio)
Android apps use AndroidManifest.xml and resource files to define the app name displayed to users. The app name is usually stored in the strings.xml resource file.
Step 1: Locate strings.xml
Open your Android Studio project and navigate to:
app/src/main/res/values/strings.xml
This file contains string resources including the app name.
Step 2: Modify the App Name String
Within strings.xml, find the string named app_name. It looks like this:
<string name="app_name">OldAppName</string>Change OldAppName to your new desired app name:
<string name="app_name">NewAppName</string>Step 3: Verify AndroidManifest.xml
Ensure your AndroidManifest.xml uses the string resource for the app name, typically like this:
android:label="@string/app_name"This ensures the app name displayed on the device is linked to the string you edited.
Step 4: Rebuild and Test
After making changes, rebuild your project and run it on an emulator or device to verify the new name appears correctly.
Changing App Name in iOS (Using Xcode)
iOS apps use Xcode as their primary development environment. The app name is displayed on the home screen and is controlled via the Info.plist file and project settings.
Step 1: Open Your Project in Xcode
Launch Xcode and open the project for the app you want to rename.
Step 2: Change the Display Name
In the project navigator, find and click the Info.plist file. Look for the key CFBundleDisplayName.
If it doesn’t exist, you can add it by clicking the plus (+) button and selecting Bundle display name. Set its value to your new app name.
Step 3: Change the Product Name
The product name is the name of the app bundle. To change it:
- Click on the project in the project navigator.
- Select the target for your app.
- Go to the Build Settings tab.
- Search for
Product Nameand change it to the new app name.
Step 4: Clean, Build, and Run
Clean the build folder (Shift + Command + K), then build and run your app on a simulator or device to check the new name.
Changing the Name of a Web App
Web apps typically display their name in the browser tab and within the app interface. Changing the app name involves editing HTML and sometimes JavaScript files.
Step 1: Change the <title> Tag
Open your main HTML file (usually index.html) and locate the <title> element inside the <head> section.
For example:
<title>OldAppName</title>Modify it to:
<title>NewAppName</title>Step 2: Update App Name in UI
If your app displays its name anywhere on the page, update those references in the HTML files or JavaScript code accordingly.
Step 3: Update Manifest for Progressive Web Apps (PWA)
If your web app is a PWA, update the manifest.json file, which controls how the app appears when installed on devices.
Locate your manifest.json file and change the name and short_name properties:
| Property | Old Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|
name |
“OldAppName” | “NewAppName” |
short_name |
“OldApp” | “NewApp” |
Additional Considerations When Changing an App Name
Changing an app’s name is not only about updating text fields; it often involves several important considerations:
App Store and Play Store Listings
If your app is already published on stores, changing the app name may require updating your store listings. This process can vary depending on the platform.
Backwards Compatibility and User Recognition
Users familiar with the old name might get confused. Consider announcing the name change through notifications or app updates to maintain trust.
Branding Impact
Ensure the new name aligns with your app’s branding, target audience, and marketing strategy.
| Platform | Where to Change Name | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Android | res/values/strings.xml, AndroidManifest.xml |
Use @string/app_name in manifest; rebuild after changes |
| iOS | Info.plist, Build Settings (Product Name) |
Change CFBundleDisplayName and product name; clean and rebuild |
| Web | index.html (<title>), manifest.json |
Update UI references; update PWA manifest if applicable |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to update all references: App name might appear in multiple files or places. Missing some can cause inconsistencies.
- Ignoring app store policies: Some platforms require specific steps or approval for name changes.
- Not testing the change: Always test on actual devices or environments to ensure the name displays correctly.
- Overlooking localization: If your app supports multiple languages, update the app name strings for each locale.
“A well-planned app name change can revitalize your app’s image and attract new users, but it requires careful execution.”
Step-by-Step Checklist for Changing App Name
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Locate where the app name is defined | Strings file, plist, manifest, or HTML title |
| 2 | Change the app name in relevant files | Update all occurrences to maintain consistency |
| 3 | Check for references in code and UI | Update hardcoded occurrences |
| 4 | Update app store or marketplace listings | Submit updates or request changes as required |
| 5 | Rebuild and test on devices/emulators | Verify display and functionality |
| 6 | Communicate change to users | Use notifications, release notes, or marketing |
Conclusion
Changing the name of an app is a detailed process that varies by platform but generally involves updating resource files, project settings, and user-facing content. Proper planning and testing are essential to ensure a smooth transition.
Whether you are renaming an Android app, an iOS app, or a web application, following the outlined steps will help you maintain consistency and avoid common pitfalls.
Remember: The app name is a crucial part of your brand identity. Take time to choose a name that resonates with your audience and reflects your app’s purpose.
