Rename Your Chromecast in the Google Home App
The fastest way to change your Chromecast name is through the Google Home app, which is the control center for all your Google Cast devices. Open the app on your phone or tablet, find your Chromecast in the device list, tap and hold it, then select the settings icon (usually a gear or three dots). Look for "Device name" or "Rename device" and type in the new name you want.
The new name appears when ready on your home network and in the app. You do not need to restart the Chromecast or reconnect it to your Wi-Fi — the change takes effect right away. This method works whether your Chromecast is a standalone device, built into a TV, or part of a Google Home speaker.
If you cannot find the rename option in the first menu, look for "Device settings" or "More settings" — the exact wording varies depending on your device model and which version of the Google Home app you have installed.
Key Takeaways
- Open the Google Home app, tap and hold your Chromecast, then select the settings icon to find the rename option.
- The new name takes effect when ready and shows up on your home network and in any app that controls your Chromecast.
- You can also rename a Chromecast through the device's web interface by typing its IP address into a browser, though the app method is simpler.
- A descriptive name like "Living Room TV" or "Bedroom Speaker" makes it easier to find the right device when you have multiple Chromecasts.
Rename Through the Chromecast Web Interface
If the Google Home app is not working or you prefer to use a computer, you can rename your Chromecast through its web interface. First, find your Chromecast's IP address by opening the Google Home app, tapping your device, selecting the settings icon, and looking for "Device information" — the IP address is listed there.
Type that IP address into your web browser's address bar (for example, 192.168.1.100) and press Enter. You will see a page with your Chromecast's status and settings. Look for a field labeled "Device name" or "Friendly name," type your new name, and save the changes.
This method works on any computer or phone with a web browser, but it requires you to know your Chromecast's IP address. Most people find the app method simpler because it does not require this extra step.
What Happens When You Rename Your Device
When you change the name, it updates everywhere that name appears: in the Google Home app, on your Wi-Fi network's device list, and in any casting menu on your phone, tablet, or computer. If you have a Google Home speaker or display, the new name also shows up when you ask Google Assistant to control that device by name.
The old name stops working when ready. If you were using voice commands like "Hey Google, cast to Living Room," you will need to use the new name instead. Renaming does not affect any routines, automations, or scenes you have set up — those continue to work, but you may want to update their names too if they reference the old device name.
Rename a Chromecast Built Into a TV
Chromecasts built into smart TVs (sometimes called Google TV or Android TV) follow the same process. Open the Google Home app, find your TV in the device list, tap and hold it, select settings, and look for the rename option. The steps are identical to renaming a standalone Chromecast.
Some TV manufacturers also let you rename the device through the TV's own settings menu, usually under "System" or "Device information." Changing the name in either place updates it everywhere, so you only need to do it once.
Naming Tips for Multiple Devices
If you have more than one Chromecast, use names that describe the location or purpose of each device. "Living Room TV," "Kitchen Speaker," and "Bedroom Display" are much easier to find in a casting menu than generic names like "Chromecast 1" or "Device 2."
Avoid special characters or very long names — stick to letters, numbers, spaces, and hyphens. Some devices and networks handle unusual characters unpredictably, and very long names can get cut off in menus. A name between 10 and 30 characters usually works best.
Troubleshooting a Name Change That Did Not Work
If you renamed your device but the old name still appears in some places, try closing and reopening the Google Home app. Sometimes the app needs to refresh to show the updated name across all screens.
If the name change does not stick after you close the settings menu, make sure your Chromecast is connected to Wi-Fi and has a stable connection. Devices that are offline or losing connection sometimes fail to save changes. Check that your phone is also connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast.
Restarting the Chromecast itself can also help. Unplug it for 10 seconds, plug it back in, wait for it to fully boot up, and then try renaming it again through the Google Home app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use special characters or emojis in my Chromecast name?
Most Chromecasts accept letters, numbers, spaces, and hyphens without problems. Emojis and special characters like @ or # may not display correctly or could cause issues on some networks. Stick to straightforward characters to avoid unexpected behavior.
Will renaming my Chromecast break any of my routines or automations?
No. Routines and automations continue to work after you rename a device because they are linked to the device itself, not its name. However, if you have voice commands that reference the old name, you will need to update those commands manually.
What if I forgot my Chromecast's name and cannot find it in the Google Home app?
Open the Google Home app and look for any device you do not recognize. If you have multiple unknown devices, unplug all your Chromecasts except one, then plug them back in one at a time while checking the app. This helps you identify which device is which.
Can I rename a Chromecast that is not connected to Wi-Fi?
No. Your Chromecast must be connected to your Wi-Fi network to rename it through the Google Home app or web interface. If your device is offline, reconnect it to Wi-Fi first, wait for it to fully boot, and then try renaming it again.