How to change the device name on Apple devices

This feature is designed to help IT administrators enforce consistent naming conventions across Apple devices. It offers flexibility and complete control over device names, simplifying device management.

Administrators can create standardized naming schemes using customizable patterns, incorporating variables like usernames, serial numbers, and custom text for a more personalized approach to device naming.

Renaming of iOS devices using smart enrollments #

This method is ideal for automatically enrolling all devices integrated through Apple Business Manager (ABM) and the Device Enrollment Program (DEP) into the MDM system.

Once in the Applivery dashboard, head to Device Management > Configuration and choose Smart Enrollments (1) from the Apple left menu.

Then click the + Create Smart enrollment (2) button.

apple-smart-enrollment-1

Configure the Auxiliary fields (3) to customize device names by creating useful labels that help organize and name the devices in the Display name pattern (4) field.

display name using auxiliary fields

To ensure that the configured display name is also synchronized with the device name, simply check the box for Apply to device name as well (only for iOS).

Renaming of iOS devices using commands #

You can also use commands for specific changes to a device name. This method is flexible and allows for both individual and bulk modifications.

Once in the Applivery dashboard, head to Device Management > Devices and select the device you want to synchronize the display name with the device name.

In the left-hand summary, click the Action button and choose Sync device name.

individually sync device name
massively sync display name with device name

Renaming of macOS devices using scripts #

For macOS devices, Applivery provides the option to create scripts with specific arguments to configure personalized names for each device.

These scripts enable IT admins to leverage their fleet information effectively, ensuring the establishment of unique and descriptive names.

Once in the Applivery dashboard, head to Device Management > Assets (1) > Scripts (2), and click the + Create Scrip (3) button.
create macOS device name script 1

The script should include arguments that extract specific information from each device according to your needs, such as the serial number or the assigned employee’s name.

Use this extracted information to create unique and descriptive device names.

change macOS device name script
Updated on October 10, 2024
Was this article helpful?

On this page

— talk to an expert —

Talk to an expert

MDM & MAD [EN]
How many devices do you want to manage with Applivery?
Which operating systems do you want to manage?