How to Rename Your TV Input or Streaming Device

Updated 13 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Renaming your TV inputs and streaming devices makes switching between your cable box, game console, and streaming stick much easier. Instead of seeing generic labels like “HDMI 1” or “Input 3,” you can display “PlayStation” or “Apple TV.” This guide covers the steps for most modern TVs and streaming devices, plus what to do if you can’t find the option.

What You’ll Need

Your TV’s remote control (the original or a compatible universal remote)
Access to the TV’s on-screen settings menu
For streaming devices: the device’s own remote or its mobile app
Patience to navigate menus that vary by brand and model

Step-by-Step

Renaming TV Inputs (HDMI, AV, Component)

Turn on your TV and press the “Input” or “Source” button on your remote. This brings up the list of available inputs (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2, AV, etc.).
Look for an edit or settings icon. On many TVs, there is a small gear icon, a pencil icon, or a “Settings” option next to the input list. If you don’t see one, press the “Menu” button on your remote and look for “Input” or “External Inputs” in the main settings.
Select the input you want to rename. Highlight it and press OK or Select.
Choose “Rename” or “Edit Name.” This might be a button on the screen or an option in a drop-down menu.
Type the new name. Use the on-screen keyboard or the number pad on your remote. You can usually enter letters, numbers, and spaces. Common names: “Cable,” “PS5,” “Xbox,” “Roku,” “Fire Stick,” or “Blu-ray.”
Confirm and save. Press “OK,” “Done,” or “Save” to apply the change. The new name should now appear in your input list.
Repeat for other inputs if you want to rename multiple ports.

Renaming Streaming Devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast)

Streaming devices are usually renamed from their settings menu or a companion app.

Roku

Go to Settings from the Roku home screen.
Select System > About.
Scroll down to Device name and select it.
Choose a new name from the list or select Custom name to type your own.
Press OK to save.

Amazon Fire TV

From the Fire TV home screen, go to Settings (gear icon).
Select My Fire TV (or Device on older models).
Choose About > Device Name.
Enter a new name using the on-screen keyboard, then select Save.

Apple TV

Open Settings on the Apple TV.
Go to General > About.
Select Name.
Type a new name and select Done.

Google Chromecast / Google TV

Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet.
Tap your Chromecast device.
Tap the gear icon (settings).
Select Device name and enter a new name.
Tap Save.

Common Mistakes

Renaming the wrong input: Double-check which port your device is plugged into. If you rename HDMI 1 but your device is on HDMI 2, you’ll be confused later.
Using special characters: Some TVs don’t allow symbols like # or @. Stick to letters and numbers.
Forgetting to save: If you exit without confirming, the change won’t stick.
Assuming all TVs have the option: Very old or budget TVs may not support renaming at all. If you can’t find it, your TV might not have the feature.

Tips

Name by device, not by port: Use “PS5” instead of “HDMI 1” so you know what’s on that input.
Keep names short: Long names may get cut off on the input selection screen.
Use consistent naming: If you have multiple streaming devices, include the brand or room, e.g., “Roku Living Room” or “Fire TV Bedroom.”
Check for a “Scan” or “Auto-detect” feature: Some TVs can automatically detect the device type and suggest a name.
Update your TV’s firmware: A software update might add renaming options or improve the interface.

Troubleshooting

I can’t find the rename option on my TV. Try pressing the “Menu” button, then look for “Input,” “External Inputs,” or “Sources.” Some TVs require you to highlight the input and press the “OK” button for a few seconds to bring up a context menu. If still nothing, check your TV’s manual online by searching the model number.

The rename option is grayed out. This can happen if the input is currently in use. Switch to another input, then try again. Also, some TVs only allow renaming for inputs that have a device connected.

My streaming device won’t rename. Make sure you’re connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your phone if using an app. For Roku and Fire TV, try restarting the device (unplug for 10 seconds) and then retry.

The new name doesn’t show up in the input list. Sometimes the TV needs a moment to refresh. Try turning the TV off and on again. If it still shows the old name, go back into settings and confirm the name was saved.

I renamed the wrong input. Simply go back into the rename menu and change it back or to the correct name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rename inputs on any TV?

Most modern smart TVs (from brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and TCL) allow renaming. Older or basic models may not have this feature. Check your TV’s manual if you can’t find it.

Will renaming affect the picture or sound quality?

No, renaming is purely cosmetic. It only changes the label you see on the input list; it doesn’t alter the signal or performance.

Can I use emojis in the name?

Generally, no. Most TV and streaming device keyboards only support letters, numbers, and basic punctuation. Emojis are rarely supported.

Why does my TV show “HDMI 1” even after I renamed it?

This can happen if the rename didn’t save properly or if the TV’s software needs a restart. Try renaming again and restarting the TV. Also, make sure you’re looking at the correct input list.

Can I rename inputs using a universal remote?

Yes, as long as the universal remote can access the TV’s menu and input selection. The process is the same as with the original remote.

Do I need to rename each input separately?

Yes, each input has its own name. You’ll need to rename HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc., individually.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.