Smartphone users often strive to personalize their device, making it unique and convenient. One popular task is to change the icons and names of installed apps to create a unified visual style or simply to clean up the menu. Standard operating system tools Android do not always allow you to do this directly, but there are several proven ways to bypass the restrictions.
The process of changing the name can range from simply setting a shortcut on the desktop to deeply interfering with the system using debugging tools. The choice of a specific method depends on the version of your firmware installed launcher and the presence of root access. In this article we will analyze in detail all the available options, from the simplest to the most advanced.
It is worth immediately noting that changing the display name does not affect the operation of the software itself. This is an exclusively cosmetic edit that helps the user quickly navigate the smartphone space and group services at their own discretion.
Using third-party launchers to change names
The easiest and safest way to change the name of any application is to install an alternative system shell. Most modern launchers provide built-in functionality for editing shortcuts directly on the desktop. This solution is ideal for those who do not want to risk system stability or tinker with complex settings.
After installing a new shell, for example Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher, you will need to hold your finger on the icon of the desired app. In the context menu that appears, select “Edit” or “Change”. Here a field opens where you can erase the old name and enter a new one, which will be displayed under the icon.
- 📱 Nova Launcher — allows you to change not only the name, but also the shape of the icon, as well as add notification badges.
- 🎨 Smart Launcher —automatically sorts applications and provides flexible options for customizing shortcuts.
- 🚀 Apex Launcher —a classic solution with theme support and detailed editing of each interface element.
It is important to understand that when using this method, only the name of the shortcut on the main screen changes. In the general list of all applications (App Drawer), the name may remain original if the launcher does not support global renaming. This limitation is due to the security architecture Androidwhich protects system packages from arbitrary changes.
⚠️ Attention: Some launchers may reset settings when updating the system or clearing the cache. It is recommended to make backup copies of shell configurations if such a function is provided by the developer.
Editing shortcuts through built-in themes
Many smartphone manufacturers, such as Xiaomi, Samsung and Oppo, are introducing their own theme stores that allow you to deeply customize the interface without installing third-party software. These stores often have icon packs available that include the ability to rename apps.
To access this feature, you must be in the default Themes or Personalization app. There you should find the icon management section. Some themes offer a “Mix” mode, where you can combine icons from different sets and edit their labels. The process is usually intuitive and does not require technical knowledge.
However, it is worth noting that free themes often have limitations. Complete freedom of action, including mass renaming of system utilities, is usually available only in premium versions or special proprietary builds. Before downloading, carefully read the theme description to make sure the necessary functionality is available.
Before applying a new theme, take a screenshot of the current icon layout. This will help you quickly restore the familiar desktop structure if you don’t like the new design.
Advanced method: change via ADB
For users who want to change the application name globally (in all system menus, not just on the desktop), there is a method using the tool ADB (Android Debug Bridge). This method requires connecting your smartphone to your computer and enabling USB debugging mode. It does not require root access, but does not work on all versions Android.
The essence of the method is to temporarily rename the package or create an alias. First you need to install ADB drivers on your computer and enable debugging in the menu For developers on your phone. After connecting the device, run the command to get a list of packages to find out the exact name of the desired application.
adb shell pm list packages | grep "part_name"Unfortunately, direct renaming of an installed APK file via ADB without root access is not possible due to the application signature. However, you can create a new shortcut with a changed name that will replace the old one in the launcher at the system level if you are using a supported shell. A more radical method involves decompiling the APK, editing the file AndroidManifest.xml and reinstalling it, which requires signing with the developer's key.
Risks of using ADB
Incorrectly entering commands can lead to unstable operation of the system or the removal of important components. Always check the syntax of commands before executing them.
Creating custom shortcuts
If you only need to change the name to quickly access a specific feature or website, the easiest way to do this is to create a custom shortcut. This method does not affect the application itself, but allows you to place an icon with any name and any picture on the desktop.
There are many applications that create shortcuts in Google Play. They work as a layer: you select the target application, load an image from the gallery and enter the desired text. Once added to the desktop, such a shortcut looks like a native application, but when launched it simply opens the original.
| Application | Features | Complexity | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shortcut Maker | Changing the name, icons, creating widgets | Low | No |
| X Icon Changer | Quick replacement of graphics and text | Low | No |
| Material Icons | Huge library of icons | Average | Launcher |
This approach is especially useful for web applications (PWA). You can add a site to your home screen and name it whatever is convenient for you, for example, “My Bank” instead of the long official name. This saves space and improves the visual perception of the interface.
⚠️ Attention: Shortcuts created by third-party utilities may disappear when the creator application is uninstalled. Make sure that the shortcut designer remains installed on the system.
☑️ Preparing for customization
Nuances of renaming system applications
An attempt to change the name of system utilities, such as “Settings”, “Phone” or “Contacts”, is fraught with great risks. The operating system Android tightly binds many processes to the original package names. Incorrect intervention can lead to errors in the operation of the interface or even to a cyclic reboot of the device (bootloop).
To safely change the names of system components usually require root access and specialized modules for Magisk. Such modules replace system resources on the fly without modifying the system partition itself. This allows you to return everything to its original state by simply disabling the module.
Without root access, it is almost impossible to rename system applications using standard means. The only safe option is to use a launcher that hides the original shortcuts and displays its custom versions on top of them. This creates the illusion of renaming without actually interfering with system files.
It is safest to change the names of only user applications. It is better not to touch system utilities without deep knowledge of Android architecture and a backup copy.
Return to original names
If you are tired of experimenting with design or the new name makes it difficult to navigate, returning everything back is quite simple. In the case of launchers, it is enough to delete the created shortcut and add the original one from the general list of applications. This is usually done by long tapping on the icon and selecting “Delete” (it’s the shortcut, not the application).
When using themes, you need to go to the theme store and apply the manufacturer’s standard theme or default theme. This will automatically reset all changes to icons and labels to the factory appearance. If you used shortcut designers, simply delete the icons created through them from the desktop.
In rare cases, when the interface freezes and displays old names even after deleting shortcuts, clearing the launcher cache can help. To do this, go to Settings → Applications → Your Launcher → Storage and press the button Clear cache. Application data will not be affected.
⚠️ Attention: Menu interfaces and item names may differ depending on the smartphone model and Android version. If you cannot find the described item, use the search inside the settings.
Is it possible to rename an application without installing additional apps?
On most stock versions of Android this is not possible. However, some shells from manufacturers (MIUI, OneUI) allow you to edit shortcuts in desktop editing mode without installing third-party launchers.
Does changing the name affect the operation of notifications?
No, notifications continue to come from the original application package. The system name of the application will be displayed in the notification shade, and not the one you set for the shortcut on the desktop.
Will the application disappear from the list of installed ones after renaming?
No, the application itself remains installed on the system. Only the displayed signature on the desktop or in the application menu changes, depending on the chosen customization method.
Is it safe to use applications to change icons?
Yes, if you download them from the official Google Play store. Avoid dubious APK files from unverified sources, as they may contain malicious code.