Rename Audio Devices: How to Change Device Names
Yes, you can rename audio devices on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The process is straightforward on computers, but mobile operating systems have more limited options. This guide covers how to change the names of your speakers, headphones, and microphones so they are easy to identify in your device lists.
Why Rename Audio Devices?
Default device names are often generic or cryptic, like “USB Audio Device� or “Realtek High Definition Audio.� Renaming helps when you have multiple similar devices, such as two pairs of wireless earbuds or several USB microphones. A clear name like “Office Headset� or “Podcast Mic� makes it easier to select the right device in apps and system settings. It also reduces confusion when connecting to Bluetooth, especially in places with many nearby devices.
Renaming on Windows
Windows lets you rename playback, recording, and other audio devices through the classic Control Panel. The modern Settings app does not offer renaming, so you need to use the older interface.
- Open Control Panel and go to Hardware and Sound > Sound.
- Go to the Playback tab (for speakers/headphones) or Recording tab (for microphones).
- Right-click the device you want to rename and select Properties.
- In the General tab, you will see a text box labeled “Name.� Type the new name.
- Click OK to save. The new name appears in the list and in apps.
Note: Some devices, especially Bluetooth ones, may revert to their original name after reconnecting. This is because the name is stored on the device itself, and Windows reads it each time. For wired devices, the rename usually sticks.
Renaming on macOS
macOS does not have a direct “rename audio device� option in System Settings, but you can change the name of Bluetooth devices, which includes most wireless headphones and speakers. For wired devices, the name is typically fixed by the hardware.
- Go to System Settings > Bluetooth.
- Find your audio device in the list.
- Click the Info (i) button next to it.
- Click the name field and type a new name.
- Press Return to save.
For USB audio interfaces or external sound cards, the name is often set by the driver and cannot be changed through macOS settings. Some third-party utilities can override this, but they are not standard.
Renaming on Android and iOS
Android and iOS handle Bluetooth device names differently. On both, you can rename a paired Bluetooth device, which applies to most wireless audio.
Android
- Open Settings > Connected devices (or Bluetooth).
- Tap the gear icon next to the device.
- Tap the pencil/edit icon and enter a new name.
- Tap Save or OK.
iOS
- Open Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the Info (i) icon next to the device.
- Tap Name and enter a new name.
- Tap Done.
On Android, renaming a Bluetooth device changes the name your phone shows, but other devices may still see the original name. On iOS, the rename is local to your iPhone or iPad; the device itself is not modified.
Renaming Bluetooth Devices at the Source
If you want a permanent rename that applies everywhere, you must change the name on the device itself. For many Bluetooth speakers and headphones, this is done through the manufacturer’s companion app (e.g., Sony, JBL, Bose). In the app, look for “Device Name� or “Rename� in settings. This changes the name that all devices see when scanning.
For USB audio devices like microphones or interfaces, the name is usually hard-coded in the firmware and cannot be changed without manufacturer tools. Some professional audio interfaces allow renaming via their control software, but this is not universal.
Common Problems and Fixes
- Rename option grayed out: On Windows, you may need to be an administrator. On macOS, ensure the device is connected and not in use.
- Name reverts after reconnect: This is common with Bluetooth devices. Use the manufacturer’s app to change the device name directly.
- Device not showing up: Make sure the device is powered on and paired. On Windows, check “Show Disabled Devices� and “Show Disconnected Devices� in the Sound settings.
- Apps still show old name: Some apps cache device names. Restart the app or the computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rename audio devices on Windows 11?
Yes, the process is the same as Windows 10. Use Control Panel > Sound, right-click the device, and choose Properties. The rename option is in the General tab.
Why does my Bluetooth headphone name keep changing?
Some devices have a feature that broadcasts a temporary name when in pairing mode (e.g., “LE-XXXX�). Once connected, the name may switch to the saved one. If it changes randomly, it could be a firmware bug; check for updates.
Can I rename a TV or soundbar?
Yes, if it is a Bluetooth device, you can rename it from your phone or computer via the Bluetooth settings. To change the name that others see, use the TV’s or soundbar’s own settings menu, often under “Bluetooth� or “Device Name.�
Does renaming affect audio quality?
No, renaming only changes the label. It has no effect on sound, latency, or connection stability.
How do I reset a device name to default?
On Windows, you can delete the custom name and type the original, or uninstall the device driver and restart. For Bluetooth, unpair and pair again; the device will broadcast its default name.
Can I rename audio devices on Linux?
Yes, using PulseAudio or PipeWire. Tools like pactl can set a description for a sink or source, and some desktop environments (e.g., GNOME) allow renaming in sound settings.
Alternatives to Renaming
If renaming is not possible, you can still manage multiple devices by using the “Set as Default� option on Windows, or by assigning devices to specific apps (e.g., in Windows Sound settings). On macOS, you can create an Aggregate Device to combine multiple audio inputs/outputs into one virtual device, which you can name. This is useful for multi-track recording but not for simple identification.
For Bluetooth devices that cannot be renamed, you can use a Bluetooth manager app on your phone to assign custom names locally, but again, this only affects your device.
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