how to change app name in android

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12-09-2025

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Changing your Android app's name involves more than just renaming a file. It requires modifying your app's core code and manifest file, ensuring consistency across all aspects of your application's presentation. This guide will walk you through the process, covering various scenarios and potential pitfalls.

What Needs to be Changed?

Changing your Android app's name is a multi-step process. You'll need to modify several key elements within your project:

• App Name in the AndroidManifest.xml file: This is the most crucial step. The <application> tag in your manifest file contains the android:label attribute, which sets the app's displayed name. You must update this attribute with your new app name.

• Strings.xml (or equivalent): Most Android projects use a strings.xml file (located in the res/values folder) to manage strings used throughout the app. This ensures consistent naming across different locales and simplifies translations. The app name is typically defined as a string resource here. You'll need to update this string resource with the new app name.

• Application Icons: While not strictly part of the name change, you might want to consider updating your app's icon to match the new branding after you've changed the name. This helps create a unified and professional user experience.

• Third-Party Libraries or Services: If your app utilizes third-party libraries or services that rely on your app's name (e.g., for analytics or push notifications), you might need to update those configurations as well.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Changing Your App's Name

1. Open your AndroidManifest.xml file: This file resides in the root directory of your Android project.

2. Locate the <application> tag: This tag contains metadata about your application.

3. Modify the android:label attribute: This attribute specifies the app's name. Replace the current value with your desired new app name. For example:

   <application
       ...
       android:label="My New App Name"
       ...>
       ...
   </application>
   

4. Update your strings.xml file (if applicable): If your app name is defined as a string resource in strings.xml, update the corresponding string value. For instance, if your app name was previously defined as:

   <string name="app_name">Old App Name</string>
   

   Change it to:

   <string name="app_name">My New App Name</string>
   

5. Rebuild and re-run your application: After making these changes, rebuild and run your app on an emulator or physical device. The changes should be reflected.

6. (Optional) Update your app icon: Consider updating your app icon to maintain a cohesive brand identity. This involves replacing the relevant image files in your project's drawable folders.

What if I'm Using a Different Build System?

The steps above are generally applicable to most Android projects. However, if you're using a different build system or framework (e.g., React Native, Flutter), the specific steps might vary slightly. Consult your framework's documentation for the appropriate method.

How to Change the App Name After Publishing?

Once your app is published on the Google Play Store, changing the name requires updating your app's listing on the Play Console. This is a separate process from changing the name within the app itself. Remember to update your app's metadata and description to reflect the new name consistently.

Troubleshooting Tips

• App name not changing: Double-check you've updated both the AndroidManifest.xml and strings.xml (if used) files. Clean and rebuild your project.
• Build errors: Ensure your project is properly configured and there are no conflicts in your project's files.
• Inconsistencies across devices: Verify the changes are consistent across different devices and Android versions.

By following these steps, you can successfully change the name of your Android application, maintaining a professional and consistent user experience. Remember to always test thoroughly after making these changes.