How do I change my computer name/identity on all Apple devices?

Initially it was just my iMac but now it appears to be all my apple computers (if not also my iPhone). My iMac identity appears on 'Airdrop' as the first person I ever contacted on FaceTime.

How do I correct that name to my identity?


This has occurred across all software releases.

Presently running 'Sequoia 15.5.

With it having now occurring on my MacBook as well it is frustrating and could lead to great embarrassment.


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Computer name/identity

iMac (2017 – 2020)

Posted on Dec 10, 2025 3:13 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Dec 10, 2025 6:21 AM

I am unsure what you mean by “iMac identity”.


Are you referring to the name of your iMac itself?



Or to the name associated with your iMac login?



How to change the iMac login short name is linked above. This short name is one of three usernames you can use to log into the iMac, the others being your full name as configured in the iMac Users & Groups, and (usually) your Apple Account. Make absolutely certain you first have a complete and current backup, before changing your short name.)


Or the name associated with your Apple Account. There are several ways to change that name, including here:



If you acquired this iMac from somebody else and not new and not previously erased, there is a more involved sequence to untangle your ownership from the ownership of the previous owner, particularly if the previous owner did not correctly release ownership of the iMac .

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Dec 10, 2025 6:21 AM in response to WGT52

I am unsure what you mean by “iMac identity”.


Are you referring to the name of your iMac itself?



Or to the name associated with your iMac login?



How to change the iMac login short name is linked above. This short name is one of three usernames you can use to log into the iMac, the others being your full name as configured in the iMac Users & Groups, and (usually) your Apple Account. Make absolutely certain you first have a complete and current backup, before changing your short name.)


Or the name associated with your Apple Account. There are several ways to change that name, including here:



If you acquired this iMac from somebody else and not new and not previously erased, there is a more involved sequence to untangle your ownership from the ownership of the previous owner, particularly if the previous owner did not correctly release ownership of the iMac .

How do I change my computer name/identity on all Apple devices?

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