When you first create an Apple Developer Account for launching apps on the App Store, you’re asked to provide a "developer name." While it might seem simple, this name represents your brand and will be visible to all users. However, choosing the wrong name can lead to problems later on. Here’s how to change your developer name if you find yourself in such a situation.
Reach Out to Apple Support: The only way to change your developer name is to get in touch with the Apple Support team for developer accounts. You can contact them directly here.
Explain Your Situation: Once you’re connected with an Apple Support representative, explain the reason behind your request to change the developer name. Whether it’s for branding, legal reasons, or any other concerns, they will guide you through the process.
Confirmation Email: After the call, Apple will send you a confirmation email. Responding to this email promptly is crucial, as this is required to finalize the name change.
Wait for the Update: Apple generally completes the update within 24 hours after you’ve confirmed the change. However, if the change doesn’t go live as expected, follow up with them to ensure everything is in order.
Important note: This developer name change is a "one-off" process. Apple only allows you to change it once, so think carefully before making any decisions. Choose a name that aligns with your company or brand identity for the long term.
(Another) important note: Be sure to be signed in with the Apple ID that is also the "Account Holder" of the Apple Developer Account. Being "Admin" might not be enough.
My personal experience with changing the developer name
During 2023 we were working on a project that was supposed to be released on the App Store, and the development team we were working with was given access to our Apple Developer account, and they used the project’s name as the "developer name." At the time, it made sense. But after a serious fallout with that company, we stepped back. It was a major loss for us, but it was necessary.
We have recently released a new app on the App Store and realized the outdated name was causing problems—both legally and for our branding.
We knew we had to fix it. The name was not only irrelevant but could potentially lead to copyright issues.
So, I contacted Apple Support via their official contact page and explained the situation. They were incredibly helpful, and the rep on the other end reassured me that the name change would go live within 24 hours after I confirmed my request via email.
I promptly replied to the confirmation email, confident that it would be resolved soon. However, 30 hours passed and... nothing. The name hadn’t changed.
I got in touch with Apple Support again and learned that they hadn’t seen my email yet—sometimes things fall through the cracks, even at Apple. Fortunately, the second support rep resolved the issue on the spot, and within 10 minutes, the name change was live.
Key takeaway: double and triple-check
The moral of the story? Always double and triple-check the status of your change. Apple Support is excellent overall, but even they experience delays and hiccups. If your request takes longer than expected, don’t hesitate to follow up.
Changing your App Store developer name isn’t something you can do often – actually not more than once – so don’t rush the decision.
Take it from me: don’t choose a name you might regret later.
