Whether you’re rebranding, launching a new content direction, or just want a more professional name, changing your YouTube channel name is a simple but impactful move. If you’re wondering, how do you change channel name on YouTube, this guide walks you through everything you need to know—from desktop, mobile, and even what to consider before hitting “save.”
Table of Contents
📅 Key Takeaways
- You can change your YouTube channel name directly from YouTube Studio on desktop or the YouTube app.
- Your name change doesn’t affect your custom URL or verification badge (unless you change it significantly).
- Branding consistency is crucial, especially for creators and businesses.
- Google account and YouTube channel names can now be changed independently (as of late 2020).
📗 How to Change Channel Name on YouTube (Desktop)
Changing your channel name on a computer is the most detailed method:
- Go to YouTube Studio.
- Click on “Customization” in the left-hand menu.
- Select the “Basic Info” tab.
- Click the pencil/edit icon next to your current channel name.
- Type your new name and hit “Publish.”
Need help with channel branding? Check out YouTube’s official creator academy.
📱 How to Change Channel Name on YouTube App (iPhone & Android)
You can also update your channel name from the mobile app:
- Open the YouTube app and tap your profile icon.
- Tap “Your channel.”
- Tap the pencil icon next to your name.
- Enter your new name and tap “Save.”
That’s it—your new name will be updated across YouTube, though it may take a few minutes to reflect.
Google’s Help Center explains the YouTube naming policy in more detail.
❓ FAQ: How to Change YouTube Channel Name
Can I change my YouTube name without changing my Google name?
Yes. YouTube now allows you to have a separate name from your Google account.
Will changing my YouTube name affect subscribers?
No. Your subscribers remain the same. However, make sure to notify them about the name change to avoid confusion.
Can I change my channel name more than once?
Yes, but frequent changes may confuse your audience or violate YouTube’s username guidelines.
Will my custom YouTube URL change too?
No, changing your channel name doesn’t affect your URL unless you request a new one at youtube.com/account_advanced.
Will I lose my verification badge if I change my name?
Possibly. If the name change is drastic, YouTube may revoke verification and require re-application.
📌 Pro Tips for Renaming Your Channel
- Keep it consistent: Ensure your new name aligns with your brand across platforms.
- Check availability: Before finalizing, search YouTube to ensure the name isn’t already in use.
- Update visuals: If the name change is part of a rebrand, update your banner, logo, and about section accordingly.
- Let your audience know: Consider announcing your name change via video or community post to avoid confusion.
For rebranding inspiration, explore real-world examples from creators on Think with Google.
📆 Final Thoughts
Learning how do you change channel name on YouTube is straightforward, but doing it strategically is what sets successful creators apart. Whether you’re refreshing your image or adjusting your identity, a clear and relevant channel name is one of the first steps toward building a recognizable and trustworthy brand.
Need more help with managing your channel? Read our full guide on how to grow your YouTube channel.
