Looking to refresh your brand or update your personal identity on YouTube? Whether you’re rebranding or correcting an old username, knowing how to change your YouTube channel name is a valuable skill for any creator. This guide breaks down the most up-to-date steps for 2025, showing you exactly how to make the switch on both desktop and mobile. Along the way, you’ll also learn how name changes affect your channel’s visibility, verification badge, and branding across platforms.
Understanding the Difference Between a YouTube Channel Name and Handle
A YouTube handle is a unique identifier that begins with the “@” symbol and is assigned to each channel. Unlike channel names—which can be duplicated across different creators—handles are one of a kind. This means no two channels can share the same handle, making it a more reliable way for users to find and mention you.
Handles are especially useful for tagging in comments, posts, and video descriptions, allowing viewers and other creators to engage directly with your channel. You’ll also see your handle included in your channel’s URL—for example, if your handle is @BMPDigital, your link would look like https://youtube.com/@BMPDigital. Choosing a distinctive and brand-friendly handle helps make your channel more recognizable and easier to locate.
How to Regain Your YouTube Verification
Changing your YouTube channel name will result in the removal of your verification badge. This is part of YouTube’s effort to prevent impersonation. To get verified again, you’ll need to submit a new request through the official YouTube verification form, using your updated channel name.
Before applying, double-check that your channel content follows all community guidelines and terms of service, as non-compliance could lead to rejection. In some cases, you might be asked to submit documents proving your identity or legal rights to the brand name. The review process may take several days, so be sure to watch your email for any messages from YouTube regarding your application. Once your badge is restored, stay within YouTube’s policy guidelines to keep your verified status intact.
How to change your YouTube channel name
You can update your YouTube channel name from either a desktop or a mobile device, whether you’re using the web browser or the YouTube Studio app. While the steps are simple, it’s important to consider a few key factors before making the switch.
How to change YouTube channel name on mobile
1. Open the YouTube mobile app on your Android or iOS device.
2. Tap on your profile picture icon at the bottom right.
3. From the menu, select View channel.
4. Look for the Edit option and tap on it.
5. Type in the new channel name for your YouTube channel.
6. After entering the updated name, click Save to confirm and apply the change.
You can easily update your YouTube channel name directly from the YouTube Studio app on both Android and iOS devices. This is a convenient option if you’re rebranding while away from your computer. Just follow these steps:
-
Tap your profile icon to open your account settings.
-
Select “Edit channel profile” from the menu options.
-
Find the section displaying your current channel name or description.
-
Tap the edit icon next to your name.
-
Enter your new channel name.
-
Hit Save to confirm and apply the changes.
How to change YouTube channel name on desktop
1. Log into your YouTube account on a web browser.
2. Click on your profile picture on the top right and then open YouTube Studio.
3. On the left sidebar, click Customization and then navigate to the Basic info section.
4. You will see a field that allows you to enter a new name for your channel. Make sure the name aligns with your overall branding strategy.
5. Type in the desired new channel name in this field and click the Publish button to apply the change.
Tips for changing your YouTube channel name
MrBeast, the world’s biggest YouTuber, did exactly that when he changed the name of his channel a long time ago.
How do I change my YouTube channel URL?
You can update your YouTube channel URL by changing your handle. For instance, if you set your new handle to @bmpdigital, your channel’s web address will automatically become youtube.com/@bmpdigital, provided that the handle is still available. Keep in mind that once the handle is changed, your previous URL will stop working—so be sure to update any external links that direct viewers to your channel.
Conclusion
Changing your YouTube channel name doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right approach, you can update your channel’s identity in minutes—without losing your audience or credibility. Just remember to stay consistent across your social media profiles and links so your followers can continue to connect with you easily. A name is powerful—make sure yours reflects your vision.