How to Change the App Name of a Website-Based Android App

When you convert your website into a mobile app, you have to choose an App Name. This is the text that appears directly underneath the app icon on the user's home screen.

If you rebrand your business, or if you simply realize your initial name was too long and got cut off by the Android operating system, you will need to change it.

However, because the App Name is a native feature hardcoded into the Android installation file, you cannot change it by simply updating your website. Here is exactly how to change the app name of a website-based Android app.

Why You Can't Change It on Your Website

Your app is built using a WebView, which is a native browser that displays your website.

If you want to change the title of your homepage, you can do that in your website's CMS (like WordPress) and it will update instantly. But the App Name is not part of the website; it is part of the native Android "shell" that holds the WebView.

To change the native shell, you must generate a new APK or AAB file.

Step 1: Choose a Good Name

Before you regenerate your app, ensure your new name follows these best practices:

• Keep it short: Android home screens do not have much space. If your name is longer than 12-15 characters, it will be cut off with an ellipsis (e.g., "The Best Sto...").
• Keep it relevant: It should instantly identify your brand.

Step 2: Regenerate the App File

You must return to the automated online website-to-app converter that you used to originally create your app.

1. Log into your account on the converter platform.
2. Navigate to your project settings or dashboard.
3. Locate the "App Name" text field.
4. Delete the old name and type in the new one.
5. Crucial Step: You must increase the Version Number (or Version Code) of your app (e.g., from v1.1 to v1.2). If you do not increase this number, the Google Play Store will reject your file, stating you uploaded a duplicate version.
6. Click Generate or Build.
7. Download the new .aab file (if publishing to Google Play) or the new .apk file (if distributing directly).

Step 3: Publish the Update

If your app is currently live on the Google Play Store, you must submit this new file as an update.

1. Log into your Google Play Console.
2. Select your app.
3. In the left-hand menu, navigate to Store presence > Main store listing.
4. Change the "App name" text field here to match your new name. (This changes the name on the Play Store page).
5. Next, navigate to Release > Production.
6. Click Create new release.
7. Upload the new .aab file you just generated.
8. In the Release Notes, mention that the app has been rebranded.
9. Save and submit the release for review.

Conclusion

Changing the app name of a website-based Android app requires generating a new Android build. By using your web-to-app converter to regenerate the file and updating both the native file and the Google Play store listing, you can ensure your rebranding goes smoothly across all devices.