Where your iPad name lives and why it matters

Your iPad has a name — the one that shows up when you connect it to a computer, when you share files over AirDrop, or when someone tries to find it on a network. This name is separate from your Apple ID and separate from the username you log in with. You can change it whenever you want, and the process takes less than a minute.

The iPad name appears in Settings under a field called Device Name. By default, Apple sets it to something like "David's iPad" or "iPad Pro", but you can make it anything you want — "Kitchen Tablet", "Bedroom Device", or just "iPad". Changing it does not affect your data, your apps, or your account.

Key Takeaways

  • Your iPad's device name is found in Settings > General > About, in a field labeled Device Name.
  • You can change the name to anything you choose, and it takes effect when ready on that iPad only.
  • The device name is what appears when you use AirDrop, connect to a computer, or join a network — not your Apple ID.
  • Changing the device name does not affect your apps, files, or account settings.

Steps to change your iPad's device name

Open the Settings app on your iPad. Tap General in the left sidebar (on iPad Pro and larger models) or scroll down and tap General (on smaller iPads). Then tap About.

At the top of the About screen, you will see a field with your current device name. Tap that field once to select it. The text will highlight. Delete the old name and type the new one. Tap Done on the keyboard when you are finished. The change takes effect when ready.

If you do not see an editable name field, make sure you are running the current version of iPadOS. Older versions sometimes hide this option in a different location. You can check your iPadOS version in the same About screen — look for Software Version.

What the device name controls and what it does not

The device name is what other people see when you use AirDrop to send files to them. It is also what appears in your Mac's Finder when you connect the iPad by USB, and it is the name that shows up in a list of devices on your home Wi-Fi network. If you share your iPad with family members, they will see this name when they try to send something to you.

The device name does not change your Apple ID, your iCloud account, or the name associated with your email. It does not affect your login password or any of your personal data. If you sign out of your Apple ID and sign back in, the device name stays the same.

Naming your iPad so you can find it later

If you have more than one Apple device, a clear device name makes life easier. Instead of "iPad", try "Kitchen iPad" or "Sarah's iPad" or "Bedroom Tablet". This way, when you are using AirDrop or looking at a list of devices on your network, you know which one you are sending to.

If your iPad is shared among family members, a descriptive name helps everyone know which device is which. You can change the name again whenever you want — there is no limit to how many times you can edit it.

If you cannot find the Device Name field

On very old iPad models running older versions of iPadOS, the Device Name field may be in a different location or may not be editable through Settings. Check that you are in Settings > General > About and that you are looking at the very top of the screen.

If the field is still not there, update your iPad to the latest iPadOS version. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and follow the prompts. Once the update is complete, the Device Name field should be available in the About screen.

Changing the name on a shared or family iPad

If your iPad is shared with family members through Family Sharing, only the person who set up the iPad can change the device name. If you are not the owner, ask the person who set it up to make the change for you.

If you are the owner and want to change the name, the process is the same — go to Settings > General > About and edit the Device Name field. The new name will show up for everyone on the network, so choose something that makes sense to all users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my iPad's name affect my Apple ID or iCloud account?

No. The device name is only what your iPad is called on networks and when sharing files. Your Apple ID, iCloud account, and all your personal data remain unchanged. You can change the device name as many times as you want without affecting your account.

Can I change my iPad's name if I forgot my password?

Yes. The device name is a setting you can change without entering your password. You only need to unlock your iPad normally and open Settings. If you have forgotten your iPad password, you will need to reset it first through your Apple ID or by using a computer.

What happens to the device name if I sell my iPad?

The device name stays on the iPad until you erase it. Before selling or giving away your iPad, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. This removes everything, including the device name, and returns the iPad to factory condition.

Can other people see my iPad's device name?

Yes, people on the same Wi-Fi network can see it when they use AirDrop or look at network devices. Anyone you send files to via AirDrop will also see the name. This is why choosing a name you are comfortable with is a good idea if you use public Wi-Fi.