Owen PalmerBy Owen Palmer

Updated November 2026

To change your AirPods name, open the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, find your AirPods, and rename them. The new name appears on every Apple device signed into your Apple Account within a few minutes. The process takes under a minute, and you don’t need to reset anything or re-pair the earbuds.

Change the AirPods Name on iPhone or iPad

This is the fastest method and works for all AirPods models.

Shopping for one? See our guide: AirPods Pro 3 Case Review: Features, Pros and Cons.

  1. Make sure your AirPods are connected to your iPhone or iPad. Put them in your ears or open the case near the device.
  2. Open the Settings app and tap Bluetooth.
  3. Find your AirPods in the list of devices. Tap the information (i) icon next to them.
  4. Tap Name at the top of the screen.
  5. Delete the current name, type your new one, and tap Done.

Change the AirPods Name on Mac

On a Mac, the steps depend on your macOS version. Newer versions use System Settings, while older ones use System Preferences. For a deeper look, How to Change Bluetooth Codec Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide (2026) covers this in detail.

  1. Open the Apple menu and choose System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS).
  2. Click Bluetooth in the sidebar.
  3. Hover over your AirPods in the device list and click Options (or the information icon).
  4. Edit the name field, then click Done.

Change the AirPods Name on Android

Android devices can’t rename AirPods directly in most cases, because the name is stored by iCloud and iOS. The name you set on an Apple device is what appears everywhere. If you use AirPods with an Android phone, you can still see the name in Bluetooth settings, but you’ll need an Apple device to edit it. Borrowing an iPhone or iPad for one minute is the simplest route.

Why the Name Might Not Update

Occasionally the old name lingers. Owners often report these causes:

Problem What to do
Old name still shows on one device Turn Bluetooth off and on, or restart the device
Name won’t save Confirm the AirPods are connected and in your ears or case
Name changed on iPhone but not Mac Confirm both devices use the same Apple Account and iCloud is on
Name reverts after an update Re-enter the name once the update finishes

If the name still doesn’t change after these checks, reset the AirPods only as a last resort, since it removes all pairings. For ongoing connection problems, see Only One AirPods Is Working? How to Fix It in 7 Steps for a fuller troubleshooting checklist.

Tips for Naming Your AirPods

  • Use a short name. Long names can truncate in the Bluetooth menu on smaller screens.
  • Include your name or initials if you share a home, so your earbuds are easy to spot on a device list.
  • Avoid emojis and special symbols, which some Bluetooth menus display incorrectly.
  • Rename both devices in a pair from the same screen. The name applies to the whole set.
  • After renaming, check every device you use, including your Mac and iPad, so the name matches everywhere.

A few accessories can make AirPods easier to identify once you’ve renamed them, especially if you carry several pairs.

  • Apple AirPods case with a silicone cover: A visible cover helps you find your earbuds at a glance, which matters more when names look similar. View on Amazon
  • Lanyard for AirPods case: A neck or wrist strap prevents the case from getting lost, so you’re less likely to need to search for it. View on Amazon

FAQ

Does changing the AirPods name affect the earbuds’ performance?

No. The name is only a label used by your devices to recognize the earbuds. It doesn’t change audio quality, battery life, or noise cancellation.

Will the new name show up on my other Apple devices?

Yes, if they use the same Apple Account and have iCloud enabled. Most owners see the change on all devices within a few minutes.

Can I change the name without an iPhone?

You can use an iPad or Mac instead. Android users need access to an Apple device to edit the name, since Android settings won’t rename AirPods.

Conclusion

Changing your AirPods name takes less than a minute from the Bluetooth settings on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. If the name doesn’t update, check your Apple Account and restart Bluetooth before trying a reset. Once renamed, the new name carries across your Apple devices automatically.

Ready to choose one?

Owen Palmer

About Owen Palmer

Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our brand headphones & noise cancelling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.