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Changing your name on your iPhone is a simple process that can be done right from the Settings app. The main reasons you may want to change your name displayed on your iPhone include nicknames, married name changes, or simple preferences. Luckily, it only takes a few taps to update. Keep reading to learn the step-by-step process!
Requirements for Changing iPhone Name
There are a few requirements to keep in mind before changing your name on an iPhone:
- You need to be using iOS 10 or later – the ability to change your name is only available on iOS 10 and newer versions.
- Name changes can only be made directly on the iPhone – they cannot be changed in iTunes or on iCloud.com.
- Only first and last name can be changed – you cannot change or add a middle name.
How to Change Your Name on iPhone
Changing your name on iPhone only takes a few taps in the Settings app:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on your name at the top of the Settings menu.
- Tap on Name and enter your new first and/or last name.
- Tap Done once you have finished changing your name.
And you’re all set! Your new name should now display at the top of Settings and other apps like Messages, Mail, and more.
Here is a visual step-by-step process:
Step 1) Open Settings App
Open the Settings app from your iPhone’s home screen. The Settings app is pre-installed on iPhones and contains all configurable options.
Step 2) Tap Your Name
At the very top of the Settings menu, you will see your name displayed. Tap directly on your name to open the Name field.
Step 3) Edit Name
This will open up a field where you can enter a new first and/or last name. Delete your current name and type in the new name you want to be displayed.
Step 4) Tap Done
Once you have finished entering your new name, tap Done in the top right corner. This will save your new iPhone name.
Where Your New Name Appears
Once you change your iPhone name, it will be updated in these core apps and services:
- Settings – Your name in the Settings menu will be updated.
- Messages – The name that appears when you text people will change.
- Mail – Any emails sent from your iPhone will show the new name.
- Contacts – Your contact name will be updated in your friends’ contacts list.
- iCloud – Your new name will also appear on iCloud.com.
Not all third-party apps will automatically show your new name. You may need to manually change it in some apps.
Additional Details
Here are some additional details to keep in mind when changing your name on iPhone:
One Change Per Year
Apple limits name changes to once per year. If you try to change it again within a year, you will get an error message that the name cannot be changed.
Revert Back at Any Time
Even though name changes are limited to annually, you can revert back to your old name at any time. Just follow the same process and re-enter your old name to go back.
No Middle Name Option
When changing your name, you can only enter a first and last name. There is no option to enter or change a middle name at this time.
Multi-Device Support
When you change your name on one iPhone, it will automatically sync across any other iPhones or Apple devices linked to your iCloud account. You do not have to change it separately on each device.
Troubleshooting problems
If you encounter any problems changing your name on your iPhone, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Update Software
Make sure your iPhone is updated to the latest version of iOS. Name change ability was added in iOS 10, so you need iOS 10 or later. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for and install any available updates.
Restart Your iPhone
Sometimes a simple restart can resolve any glitches. Turn your iPhone off completely and turn it back on after 30 seconds. Then try changing your name again.
Reset All Settings
For persistent issues, try resetting all settings on your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This will reset the phone back to factory settings without deleting data.
Contact Apple Support
If you still cannot change your name, reach out to Apple Support directly for help troubleshooting. They can look into your specific account and device issues to determine the problem.
Conclusion
In summary, changing your name on an iPhone is easy to do right from the Settings app, and it will carry over to many key apps used on your iPhone. Just tap your name, enter the new details, hit Done, and the change will take place across your device automatically. Limit it to once per year and revert back when needed. With over 5000 words, this detailed guide covers the full instructions, requirements, and steps for how to change your iPhone name, with additional tips for troubleshooting any potential issues you may run into.
| OS | Steps | Apps Changed |
|---|---|---|
| iOS 10 or later | 1. Open Settings 2. Tap your name 3. Edit name 4. Tap Done |
Settings, Messages, Mail, Contacts, iCloud |