Are you looking to change a contact’s name on your iPhone? It’s a simple process that can be done in just a few taps. Whether you’ve saved a contact with a typo, want to add a last name, or just feel like switching things up, updating contact names on iOS 17 is a breeze.
You can also check out this video about how to change contact name on iPhone for additional information.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Change Contact Name on iPhone
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that changing a contact’s name on your iPhone will update it across all devices where you’re signed in with your Apple ID. This means your contact’s new name will appear on your iPad, Mac, and other Apple devices as well.
Step 1: Open the Contacts App
Open the Contacts app on your iPhone. If you can’t find it, swipe down from the middle of your home screen and type “Contacts” into the search bar.
Once you’re in the Contacts app, you’ll see a list of all the people you’ve saved. It’s the place where all your important numbers and emails are stored, so handle it with care!
Step 2: Select the Contact to Edit
Scroll through your contacts or use the search bar at the top to find the contact whose name you want to change. Tap on their name to open their contact card.
This is where you’ll see all the details you’ve saved for them – phone numbers, email addresses, and more.
Step 3: Tap on the ‘Edit’ Button
In the top right corner of the contact card, you’ll see an ‘Edit’ button. Tap on it to start making changes to the contact’s name.
The ‘Edit’ button is your gateway to customization. Not only can you change names, but you can also add nicknames, birthdays, and even set custom ringtones.
Step 4: Change the Contact’s Name
Once in edit mode, tap on the name fields to start typing. You can change the first name, last name, or add a middle name if needed. When you’re done, tap ‘Done’ in the top right corner to save changes.
Remember, the way you save a contact’s name is how it will appear across all your devices and in messages, so make sure it’s just the way you want it!
After you’ve saved your changes, the contact’s new name will appear in your Contacts list. If you’re part of a shared contact group or family plan, the new name will also be updated for anyone else who has that contact saved.
Tips for Changing Contact Names on iPhone
- If you have a lot of contacts, use the search bar to quickly find the person you’re looking to edit.
- Double-check the spelling before you save – it’s easy to make typos on a small keyboard.
- Consider adding a last name or initial if you have multiple contacts with the same first name.
- If you change your mind later, you can always go back and edit the name again.
- Remember that changes to contacts sync across all devices signed in with your Apple ID, so make sure you’re happy with the new name everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I delete a contact on iOS 17?
To delete a contact, open their contact card, tap ‘Edit’, scroll down, and tap ‘Delete Contact’. Confirm the deletion and the contact will be removed from your list.
Can I add a nickname to a contact on my iPhone?
Yes, you can. In the ‘Edit’ mode of a contact card, tap ‘add field’ and select ‘Nickname’. You can then enter the nickname you’d like to use.
Will changing a contact’s name update it in my messages?
Yes, once you change a contact’s name, it will update across all apps, including Messages, Mail, and any other app that uses your contacts.
What happens if I have the same contact saved twice with different names?
If you have duplicates, you can merge them by selecting one contact, tapping ‘Edit’, and then ‘Link Contacts’. Choose the duplicate contact, and the information will be merged under one name.
Can I change the contact name for someone else’s phone remotely?
No, you cannot change someone else’s contact name on their phone unless you have access to their device or they have shared their contact card with you and given you editing permissions.
Summary
- Open the Contacts app.
- Select the contact to edit.
- Tap the ‘Edit’ button.
- Change the contact’s name and tap ‘Done’.
Conclusion
Changing a contact’s name on an iPhone running iOS 17 is a straightforward task that can help keep your contact list organized and up-to-date. Whether you’re correcting a misspelled name or updating information after a friend’s name change, the process is quick and easy. Remember to double-check your changes to avoid any mix-ups, and keep in mind that these changes will reflect across all your Apple devices. With the ability to add additional details like nicknames and birthdays, your contact list can be as detailed as you like. So go ahead, give it a try and personalize your contact list to suit your needs. And who knows, maybe this small change might spark joy every time you see that newly updated contact name pop up on your iPhone.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.