Modern smartphones based on Android give users enormous freedom of action, but sometimes standard settings are not enough. Often a situation arises when it is necessary to change the system identifier of a device in order to gain access to restricted content, specific functions, or simply hide the real brand of the gadget from applications. Changing a model is a process that affects system files build.prop or uses USB debugging capabilities.
Why change the name of your phone at all? In some cases, this is required to bypass regional restrictions on streaming services that block work on uncertified or “unsuitable” devices. Gamers may want to emulate a more powerful flagship to unlock high frame rates in games not available on their current device. However, it is worth understanding that this is interference with the operation of the operating system and requires caution.
In this article we will look at legal and safe ways to change the displayed model, as well as deeper methods for advanced users. You will learn how to use developer tools and special applications to replace characteristics. Do not forget that you perform any manipulations with system parameters at your own peril and risk.
Why should users change the device model
The main reason lies in the limitations of the software. Application developers often tie functionality to specific Device ID or model names. For example, the high-definition screen recording feature may only be available to owners Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultraeven if your phone is technically capable of it. Substituting a name allows you to bypass this artificial blocking.
In addition, there are scenarios for using corporate software that whitelists (allows) only certain phone models to access the company's internal network. In such a situation, administrators may require employees to use specific devices, but changing the ID allows you to connect a personal phone without purchasing a new fleet of equipment.
⚠️ Attention: Changing the phone model can lead to disruption of Google Pay and banking applications, as they check the integrity of the system and compliance with security certificates.
Another popular case is testing applications developers. They need to test how their software behaves on different screens and configurations without purchasing dozens of physical devices. Emulating another model allows you to quickly switch the testing context.
Basic methods through developer settings
The easiest way to change the system's perception of your phone is to use the built-in capabilities for developers. This method does not require obtaining root access and works on most modern versions Androidstarting from version 10. However, it changes the model only for some applications, and not globally.
First, you need to activate the developer menu. Go to your phone settings, find the "About phone" section and click on "Build number" 7 times. After the message “You have become a developer” appears, return to the main settings menu and open the new “For Developers” item.
Inside this menu, scroll down the list to the “Network Settings” or “Debugging” section. Look for an item that may be called "Select an application to emulate secondary displays" or similar options related to identification. Some firmware from Xiaomi or OnePlus have hidden settings that allow you to change the model line.
If you do not see the necessary settings, try entering the command through a computer, since the built-in menu is often cut down by manufacturers.
It is worth noting that this method often only changes what is displayed name in the About Phone menu, but does not affect deep system API calls. Applications that request the model through system libraries will still see the original name.
Using ADB to spoof an identifier
A more reliable method that works at the level of interaction with the computer is to use the toolkit Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This method allows you to send commands that temporarily change the model report for connected services or specific sessions. You will need a PC, a USB cable and installed drivers.
Connect your smartphone to the computer and make sure that the USB debugging confirmation appears on the phone screen. Open a command prompt or terminal on your PC in the folder where ADB is installed. Enter the command to check the connection:
adb devicesIf the device is displayed in the list, you can proceed to change the settings. There is a command that allows you to change the value of the property ro.product.model, but on modern versions of Android with a locked bootloader this may not work without superuser rights. However, you can try changing the settings through the shell:
adb shell settings put global device_name "New Model Name"☑️ Preparing to work with ADB
This method is good because it is reversible. It is enough to reboot the device or reset the ADB settings for everything to return to normal. This is an ideal option for those who are afraid of “bricking” their gadget with incorrect actions.
Global change of model through root access
To completely change the model, which will be visible to absolutely all applications and services, you need superuser rights (Root). This process opens access to the system file build.prop, where all the characteristics of the device are written. Editing this file requires maximum care.
You will need a file manager with Root support, for example Root Explorer or Mixplorer. Go to the root of the system along the path /system or /vendor. Find the file build.prop. Before editing, be sure to create a backup copy of it!
Open the file as text and find the lines starting with:
- 📱
ro.product.model—the commercial name of the model is indicated here. - 🏭
ro.product.manufacturer—the brand is indicated here (Samsung, Google, etc.). - 🆔
ro.product.device—the code name device. - 📟
ro.build.fingerprint—a unique assembly fingerprint that is critical for the operation of SafetyNet.
⚠️ Attention: An error in one character when editing
build.propcan lead to an endless reboot of the phone (bootloop). Always have a recovery image on hand.
Change the values to those you need. For example, in order for a phone to be detected as Google Pixel 7, you need to enter the appropriate values from the original firmware of this device. After saving the file, be sure to restart your smartphone.
Where can I get the correct values for someone else's model?
They can be found on forums like w3bsit3-dns.com or XDA Developers in topics dedicated to specific firmware. Look for build.prop files from the stock roms of the desired device.
Specialized applications for changing the model
If fiddling with text files manually seems too risky, you can use ready-made solutions from the application store. There are utilities that automate the process of replacing characteristics. They are especially popular among users who want to play games with high graphics settings.
One of the most famous applications is Device ID Changer. It allows you to change not only the model, but also the serial number, MAC address and other identifiers. The app interface is intuitive: you select the desired model from the list or enter your data, and the application applies the changes through Root access.
Another option is to use modules for Magiskif you have this rights manager installed. Modules like "Universal SafetyNet Fix" often include functions for replacing the system fingerprint, which automatically changes the perception of the model by Google services. This is a more modern and secure approach than directly editing files.
| Method | Root required | Efficiency | Risk of breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|
| Developer settings | No | Low (name only) | Minimum |
| ADB commands | No (partially) | Medium | Low |
| Editing build.prop | Yes | High (full) | High |
| Magisk modules | Yes | Very high | Medium |
Possible problems and solutions
After changing the model, you may encounter surprises. The most common thing is that contactless payments stop working. This happens because Google's security system sees a discrepancy between the declared model and the real hardware or the damaged integrity of the bootloader.
In some cases, applications may become unstable, crash, or require re-authorization. If you notice that the camera starts taking pictures with artifacts, it is possible that the selected model has different sensor parameters and the drivers are conflicting. In such a situation, you should immediately return the original values.
It is also worth considering regional features. Changing the model to a device intended for a different market (for example, a Chinese version instead of a global version) may result in the lack of necessary communication frequencies or inoperative GPS. Always check the specifications before substitution.
Returning to factory settings (Factory Reset) does not always undo changes in build.prop if the file was edited manually. Always keep a backup copy of the original file.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Will a factory reset reset the changed model?
If you changed the model through settings or ADB without Root, then the reset will return everything as it was. If you edited the file build.prop manually, resetting may not help, since the file is located on the system partition, which is not cleared with a standard wipe. A flashing will be required.
Is it possible to change the model without root access forever?
On modern versions of Android with a locked bootloader, it is almost impossible to do this globally and permanently without Root. The system protects the integrity of system files. Temporary replacement via ADB only works until you reboot or reset the session.
Does changing the model affect the warranty?
The very fact of changing the model name in the app code usually does not void the warranty if you have not unlocked the bootloader and have not received root access. However, if the service center finds traces of tampering with system files during diagnostics, they may refuse free repair.
Why did YouTube stop working after changing the model?
YouTube checks the certification of the device. If you have replaced the model with an uncertified one or changed the system fingerprint to an incorrect one, the service may block high-quality video playback or the operation of the entire application.
Is it safe to use applications from third-party sources to change ID?
Applications that require root access is themselves safe if downloaded from trusted ones repositories (for example, GitHub or XDA). However, downloading modified APK files from dubious sites carries the risk of malware infection. Always check digital signatures.