Changing the name of an app on Android can be a useful feature, especially if you want to personalize your device or if you want to give a different name to an app for organizational purposes. However, the process may not be as straightforward as you might expect. In this blog post, we will explore various methods that you can use to change the name of an app on your Android device. We will also discuss the challenges you may encounter and provide some additional tips to make the process easier.
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The Challenge of Changing the Name of an App on Android
Changing the name of an app on Android can be a bit tricky because unlike iOS, Android does not provide a built-in option to directly change the app name. The name of an app on Android is determined by the label specified in the app’s manifest file. Modifying this label requires some technical knowledge and the use of third-party tools or methods. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to overcome this challenge, and we will explore them in detail below.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before you begin, there are a few things you should prepare in order to successfully change the name of an app on Android:
1. Backup your device: It’s always a good idea to create a backup of your device before making any changes. This will ensure that you can revert back to the original state if something goes wrong during the process.
2. Developer options: In order to change the name of an app on Android, you need to enable developer options on your device. To do this, go to Settings > About phone and tap on the build number multiple times until a message appears saying "You are now a developer". This will enable the developer options menu in your device settings.
3. APK editor: To modify the app name, you will need an APK editor tool. There are several options available, such as APK Editor Pro, APKTool, and Advanced APKTool. Choose the one that suits your needs and install it on your device.
Method 1: Using APK Editor Pro
APK Editor Pro is a powerful tool that allows you to modify APK files directly on your Android device. Here’s how you can use it to change the name of an app:
1. Install APK Editor Pro: Download and install APK Editor Pro from a trusted source.
2. Launch APK Editor Pro: Open the APK Editor Pro app on your device.
3. Select the app: Choose the app for which you want to change the name from the list of installed apps.
4. Edit the name: Tap on the "Common Edit" option and then tap on the "App Name" field. Enter the new name for the app and click on the save button.
5. Save the modified APK: After editing the app name, click on the save button and the modified APK file will be saved on your device.
6. Install the modified APK: Uninstall the original app from your device and then install the modified APK file that you saved in the previous step.
Pros:
– No need for a computer or external tools.
– Can be done directly on your Android device.
– Allows for easy customization of the app name.
Cons:
– Requires purchasing the APK Editor Pro app for full functionality.
– May require advanced technical knowledge for more complex modifications.
Method 2: Using APKTool
APKTool is a command-line tool that allows you to decompile and recompile APK files. This method requires a computer and the use of the command prompt. Here’s how you can use APKTool to change the name of an app:
1. Download APKTool: Download and install APKTool on your computer from the official website.
2. Decompile the APK: Open the command prompt on your computer and navigate to the folder where you saved the APK file. Run the command "apktool d
3. Edit the name: Use a text editor to open the "AndroidManifest.xml" file located in the decompiled folder. Look for the "android:label" attribute within the "application" tag and change the value to the new name.
4. Recompile the APK: In the command prompt, run the command "apktool b
5. Sign and install the APK: Use the command "jarsigner" to sign the APK file with your keystore. Then, install the signed APK file on your device.
Pros:
– Allows for more advanced modifications to the APK file.
– Can be done on a computer without the need for additional apps on the device.
Cons:
– Requires technical knowledge and familiarity with the command line.
– May be more time-consuming and complex than other methods.
Method 3: Using Advanced APKTool
Advanced APKTool is an enhanced version of APKTool that provides more features and functionality. It simplifies the process of modifying APK files and includes a user-friendly interface. Here’s how you can use Advanced APKTool to change the name of an app:
1. Download Advanced APKTool: Download and install Advanced APKTool on your computer from the official website.
2. Decompile the APK: Open Advanced APKTool and click on the "Decompile" option. Select the APK file you want to modify and choose a folder to save the decompiled files.
3. Edit the name: In the decompiled folder, navigate to the "res" folder and then to the "values" subfolder. Open the "strings.xml" file and change the value of the "app_name" string to the new name.
4. Recompile the APK: Go back to Advanced APKTool and click on the "Compile" option. Select the decompiled folder and choose a location to save the recompiled APK file.
5. Sign and install the APK: Use the command "jarsigner" to sign the APK file with your keystore. Then, install the signed APK file on your device.
Pros:
– Provides a user-friendly interface for modifying APK files.
– Supports advanced features and functionality.
– Simplifies the process of changing the app name.
Cons:
– Requires downloading and installing an additional tool.
– May still require some technical knowledge and familiarity with APK files.
Method 4: Via a Custom Launcher
Another way to change the name of an app on Android is by using a custom launcher. There are several launchers available on the Google Play Store that allow for app name customization. Here’s how you can change the name of an app using a custom launcher:
1. Install a custom launcher: Search for a custom launcher on the Google Play Store. Popular options include Nova Launcher, Action Launcher, and Apex Launcher. Install the launcher of your choice on your device.
2. Set the custom launcher as default: After installing the custom launcher, go to Settings > Home and select the custom launcher as the default home app.
3. Rename the app: Long press on the app icon you want to rename and select the "Edit" or "Rename" option. Enter the new name for the app and tap on the save button.
Pros:
– Does not require modifying the APK file.
– No technical knowledge or advanced tools needed.
– Can be done easily through the device settings.
Cons:
– Only changes the name of the app within the launcher.
– Does not modify the original app name in the system.
Why Can’t I Change the Name of an App?
There are a few reasons why you might encounter difficulties in changing the name of an app on Android. Here are some common problems and their possible solutions:
1. System limitations: Some apps have a locked or protected name that cannot be changed. In such cases, you may need to look for alternative methods or use a custom launcher to achieve the desired result.
2. User restrictions: If you are using a managed device or your device is controlled by an administrator, you may not have the necessary permissions to modify the app name. Contact your administrator for assistance.
3. App dependencies: Modifying the app name may cause compatibility issues with other apps or system functions that rely on the original app name. Be cautious when changing the name of system apps or apps that are essential for the device’s functionality.
4. App updates: When you update the app to a new version, the changes you made to the app name may be overwritten. Consider disabling automatic updates for the app or repeating the name-changing process after each update.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you change the name of an app on Android more effectively:
1. Choose a unique name: Avoid using the same name for multiple apps to prevent confusion and ensure that the new name accurately represents the app’s purpose or function.
2. Test the modified app: After changing the app name, test the modified version to ensure that it functions correctly and does not cause any unexpected issues or errors.
3. Read app reviews: Before modifying an app’s name, read the reviews and ratings to see if other users have encountered any problems or limitations when changing the app name. This can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed.
5 FAQs about Changing the Name of an App on Android
Q1: Will changing the name of an app affect its functionality?
A: In most cases, changing the name of an app should not affect its functionality. However, it is possible that some apps may have dependencies or restrictions that could be affected by modifying the app name.
Q2: Can I change the name of system apps on Android?
A: Changing the name of system apps on Android may require root access and more advanced modifications. It is generally not recommended to modify system apps unless you have a thorough understanding of the potential consequences.
Q3: How often should I check for app updates after changing the app name?
A: It is a good practice to periodically check for updates for the app after changing its name. App updates may overwrite the changes made to the app name, so it’s important to repeat the name-changing process if necessary.
Q4: Are there any legal implications of changing the name of an app?
A: Generally, changing the name of an app does not have any legal implications as long as it complies with copyright and trademark laws. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with legal experts if you have concerns about the potential consequences.
Q5: Can I revert back to the original app name if needed?
A: If you have created a backup of your device before changing the app name, you can restore the backup to revert back to the original app name. However, keep in mind that this will also revert your device to the previous state.
In Conclusion
Changing the name of an app on Android can be a useful way to personalize your device or improve organization. While it may present some challenges, there are various methods available to achieve this. Whether you choose to use APK editing tools, custom launchers, or other methods, it’s important to ensure that the modified app functions correctly and does not cause any compatibility issues. As with any modification, it’s always a good idea to create a backup of your device before making any changes.