To rename a folder on your iPhone, touch and hold the folder on the Home Screen until a menu appears, tap Rename, type the new name and tap Done. If you’re already inside the folder, touch and hold its name at the top until it becomes editable. This works the same on iOS 17 and later.
Quick Answer
Touch and hold the folder > Rename > type a name > Done.
Steps to Rename a Folder
- On the Home Screen, touch and hold the folder.
- Tap Rename in the menu.
- Tap the ⓧ to clear the old name, type a new one and tap Done on the keyboard.
- Tap an empty area of the Home Screen to finish.
Rename From Inside the Folder
- Open the folder.
- Touch and hold an empty space or an app until the apps jiggle.
- Tap the folder name at the top and edit it.
Folder Tips
| Task | How |
|---|---|
| Create a folder | Drag one app onto another in jiggle mode |
| Use emoji in names | Switch to the emoji keyboard while renaming |
| Delete a folder | Drag every app out; it disappears when empty |
| Hide a Home Screen page | Jiggle mode > tap the page dots > untick the page |
Troubleshooting
- No Rename option: Update iOS, or use the jiggle-mode method above.
- Name reverts: Tap Done on the keyboard before leaving.
- Getting around your apps: See switching between apps and closing apps and windows.
- Add websites to your Home Screen: See bookmarking websites on iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rename folders in the Files app?
Yes. Touch and hold the folder in Files and choose Rename.
How long can folder names be?
Longer names get cut off on the Home Screen, so keep them short.
Does iPhone name new folders automatically?
Yes, based on the apps’ categories. You can rename it any time.
Summary
- Touch and hold the folder.
- Tap Rename.
- Type the new name.
- Tap Done.
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.