How to Rename and Change Your Connected Apple AirPods Device Name

Your AirPods automatically get named after the first device they connect to, usually with your name followed by “‘s AirPods”. While this default name works, you may want to customize it to something more personal or identifiable, especially if you have multiple pairs of AirPods.

Renaming your AirPods is easy to do right from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The change syncs across devices connected to your Apple ID, so you’ll see the new name everywhere.

Steps to Rename Connected AirPods on iPhone or iPad

Follow these steps to rename your connected AirPods from an iPhone or iPad:

  1. Ensure your AirPods are connected to your iPhone or iPad. Put them in your ears to connect them if needed.
  2. Open the Settings app and tap on Bluetooth.
  3. In the list of connected devices, tap the i icon next to your AirPods.
  4. Tap on Name.
  5. Type in the new name you want for your AirPods. You can enter almost anything here.
  6. Tap Done to save the new name.

The name of your AirPods should now change in the Bluetooth devices list. It may take a minute to sync across devices if you have multiple Apple devices connected to your Apple ID.

Steps to Rename Connected AirPods on a Mac

You can also easily rename connected AirPods from your Mac computer:

  1. Ensure your AirPods are connected to your Mac. Put them in your ears to connect them if needed.
  2. Click on the Apple menu and select System Settings.
  3. In System Settings, select Bluetooth in the sidebar.
  4. In the list of connected devices, right-click on your AirPods.
  5. Select Rename from the menu.
  6. Type in the new name.
  7. Press Enter or click outside the text box to save the new name.

Just like when renaming from an iPhone or iPad, the updated AirPods name should now display in the devices list and sync across your Apple devices.

Tips for Renaming Your AirPods

Here are some tips when changing your AirPods’ name:

  • Get creative and fun with the name – it doesn’t have to be boring. Examples include your nickname, favorite movie character, pet’s name, etc.
  • Add your initials or an identifier if you have multiple pairs of AirPods to tell them apart. For example “J’s AirPods Pro”.
  • You can rename your AirPods as often as you like if you change your mind. Just repeat the steps above.
  • Check that the new name updated across all your connected Apple devices. If not, try restarting your AirPods and devices.
  • If you lent your AirPods to someone else, have them reset the AirPods first before renaming them.

Why Rename Your AirPods?

Here are some of the benefits of customizing your AirPods’ name:

  • Easier to identify your AirPods in Bluetooth menus if you have multiple devices.
  • Personalizes your AirPods and sets them apart.
  • Can indicate which person’s AirPods they are if you share a device.
  • Lets you change the name if you bought used AirPods.
  • Fixes issues caused by AirPods showing the wrong name.

So if you want to make your AirPods truly your own, take a minute to rename them to your liking. It’s a simple setting change that makes your AirPods feel more customized to you.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you run into any problems changing your AirPods’ device name, here is some troubleshooting advice:

  • Ensure your AirPods are connected before trying to rename them.
  • Check that your devices are updated and connected to the internet.
  • Reset your AirPods and retry connecting and renaming them.
  • Make sure you complete the full process of selecting the AirPods and entering the new name.
  • On a Mac, be sure to click outside the text box to save the name change.
  • If lent AirPods still show the old name, have the original owner factory reset them first.
  • Try rebooting your iPhone, iPad, or Mac if the new name won’t stick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about renaming AirPods:

Can you rename AirPods Max or AirPods Pro?

Yes, the steps to rename AirPods Max, AirPods Pro, and any generation of regular AirPods are the same.

Do you need an iPhone to rename connected AirPods?

No, you can rename connected AirPods from an iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, or Mac. Windows devices do not have the option to rename them though.

How often can I change the name of my AirPods?

You can rename your connected AirPods as frequently as you want. Feel free to try different names until you find one you love.

Will my AirPods keep the custom name if I reset them?

No, resetting your AirPods returns them to default factory settings, including the default device name. You would need to rename them again.

Why do my AirPods show the wrong name sometimes?

This can happen if someone else connected their device to your AirPods without resetting them first. Try doing a reset then reconnect and rename them.

Conclusion

Customizing the name of your connected AirPods helps them feel more personal and easier to identify among other devices. With just a few taps in Bluetooth settings on your Apple devices, you can change the name to anything you want, as often as you want. So have fun making your AirPods truly your own!