Cast device names to rename before sending video to TVs
Checking the Current Device Name Before Casting
Before you start casting a video, it’s worth taking a moment to look at how your devices are currently labeled in the cast menu. Most TVs and streaming receivers show up with default names set by the manufacturer, such as “Living Room TV” or a model-based label like “Samsung 7 Series.” These names are often not specific enough, especially in homes with multiple screens.
This step matters because the cast list usually shows every nearby compatible device on the same network. If the names are unclear or duplicated, it becomes easy to accidentally connect to the wrong TV—especially in shared spaces or apartment environments. Checking the existing label first helps you quickly identify which device you are actually targeting before making any changes.
Renaming the TV Through Its Settings Menu
Once you’ve identified the correct device, renaming it is usually done directly through the TV’s built-in settings. Depending on the brand, the option may appear under sections like System, General, Network, or About This TV, often labeled as Device Name or Network Name. Although the menu path varies, the function is the same: it lets you assign a custom name that is easier to recognize.
Choosing a clear and descriptive name—such as “Bedroom TV” or “Living Room Screen”—makes future casting much more straightforward. After saving the change, the TV may briefly disconnect and reconnect to the network as it updates its identity.
In some cases, the updated name might not appear immediately on your phone or computer. This is usually temporary and can be fixed by closing and reopening the casting app or refreshing the device list so it performs a new scan. Once refreshed, the new label should show correctly, making it much easier to select the right screen in the future.
Comparing TV Name Changes on Different Brands
Different TV brands place the rename option in different menu locations. Knowing where to look saves time and prevents you from changing the wrong setting. Common TV brands place the device name option in specific menu paths, and after renaming, you need to refresh the cast list or restart the TV to see the change.
Your TV brand might not be listed, so look for similar labels under System, Network, or General menus. Some TVs also allow renaming through the companion app on your phone, but the TV settings menu is the most direct method. After renaming, test the cast with a short video to confirm the correct name appears and the connection works.
| TV Brand | Menu Path for Device Name | Next Action After Saving |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Settings > General > System Manager > Device Name | Restart the TV or refresh the cast list on your phone |
| LG | Settings > All Settings > General > About This TV > TV Name | Close and reopen the video app to see the new name |
| Sony | Settings > Network & Internet > Home Network > Device Name | Check the cast list within one minute for the updated label |
Verifying the New Name Before Every Cast Session
Once you rename the TV, the new name stays saved until you change it again. However, some TVs may reset the name after a software update or a full factory reset. Glance at the cast list before you send a long video or a movie. A name that looks different or missing means you should check the TV settings again rather than guessing which device to select.
You share your Wi-Fi network with other people, so they will also see your renamed TV on their cast lists. Choose a name that is clear to everyone in your household, such as “Kitchen TV” or “Upstairs Screen.” Avoid using personal or confusing labels. This small step helps everyone in the home send video to the correct screen without hesitation or accidental casting to the wrong device.