How to Change Device Name in Android Nearby Share on Windows 11
The Nearby Share device name in Windows 11 controls how your computer shows up on your Android phone when you send files back and forth. Changing this name replaces your PC’s generic default label with something you recognize right away, stopping you from sending photos or documents to the wrong machine.
Google’s Nearby Share service makes wireless file transfers simple, but finding your PC gets tricky when multiple computers share the same default name. Setting a custom name fixes this problem so you can spot your PC instantly on your phone screen.
Access Nearby Share settings in Windows and click “Rename” under the Device name tile. Enter your new name and save. This personalized name will then appear on your Android device’s share menu.
How to change your device name
Modifying your device name in Nearby Share makes finding your computer faster during file transfers. The app settings house this renaming option directly.
Open the Nearby Share app by clicking the Start menu and finding the Nearby Share icon in your app list. This starts the process of renaming your Windows 11 device, helping you identify it quicker during file sharing.
2. Click the Settings button (the gear icon) at the top right of the app window.
3. Find the Device name tile and click the Rename link.
4. Type in your new name and save your changes.
Troubleshooting: When the Name Does Not Update
Windows network profiles and discovery services sometimes retain old cached data instead of showing a changed device name immediately. Follow these steps to refresh those services if your PC still shows the outdated moniker.
Restarting Discovery Services (Admin Required)
[ADMIN PRIVILEGES REQUIRED] Open the Start menu and type 'Services,' then press Enter. Find 'Function Discovery Resource Publication,' right-click it, and select 'Restart.' This forces Windows to broadcast your updated name to nearby hardware.
Clearing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Cache
Persistent naming issues usually point to your Android device holding onto the old PC name. Toggle Bluetooth and Wi-Fi off and on again on your phone. This clears the local device cache and triggers a fresh scan for nearby hardware.
Registry and System Name Sync
Nearby Share pulls its identity from your Windows system name. This name lives inside the Windows registry at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft. Keeping both names identical prevents confusion during file transfers.
Summary
Customizing your device name in Nearby Share keeps your workflow organized and helps you spot your computer faster.
Why does my PC show the wrong name in Nearby Share?
Your PC might display the wrong name in Nearby Share if the app or your phone retains cached data, which restarting services usually fixes.
Does changing my computer name automatically update Nearby Share?
Updating your computer name in Windows fails to automatically alter Nearby Share because the application maintains independent settings.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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