Change your username directly in the Xbox app on your phone

You can change your Xbox username through the Xbox app without needing a computer or console. Open the app, tap your profile picture in the top right corner, select your gamertag, and follow the prompts to pick a new one. The change takes effect when ready across all your devices — your console, PC, and mobile app all update at once.

The process takes about two minutes. You will need to know your current password, and Microsoft will ask you to confirm the new name before it becomes final. If the name you want is already taken, the app will suggest alternatives or let you try a different one.

Key Takeaways

  • Tap your profile picture in the Xbox app, then select your gamertag to start the change process.
  • You can change your username once every 30 days at no cost; additional changes within that window cost money.
  • Your new gamertag appears on your Xbox console, PC, and all other devices within seconds.
  • If your desired name is taken, the app suggests similar alternatives you can choose instead.
  • You must enter your Microsoft account password to confirm any username change.

Step-by-step: finding your profile settings

Launch the Xbox app and look for your profile picture or avatar in the top right corner of the screen. This is usually a small circle with your current gamertag initial or a custom image. Tap it once.

A menu will drop down with several options. Look for the line that shows your current gamertag — it might say something like "View profile" or show your name directly. Tap on your gamertag itself, not on "View profile." This takes you to the settings page where you can make changes.

Entering and confirming your new username

Once you are on your profile settings page, you will see a field labeled "Gamertag" or "Username." The current name appears in this field. Tap the field to clear it and type your new username. Xbox usernames can be 3 to 15 characters and can include letters, numbers, and some symbols — no spaces or special characters like @ or #.

After you type the new name, tap the button to check availability. If the name is available, the app shows a green checkmark. If it is taken, you will see a red X and a list of similar names you can choose from instead. Pick one from the suggestions or go back and try a different name.

Once you have chosen an available name, the app will ask you to enter your Microsoft account password. Type it in and tap confirm. Your new gamertag is now active.

What happens after you change your username

Your new gamertag appears on your Xbox console, your PC, and the mobile app within seconds. Friends will see the new name in their friend lists. Any messages or party invites sent to your old gamertag will not work — people need to use your new name to reach you going forward.

Your achievement history, game library, and all saved game data stay exactly the same. Changing your username does not affect anything you own or any progress you have made in games.

The 30-day rule and cost of changing again

Microsoft allows one free username change every 30 days. If you change your gamertag today and want to change it again tomorrow, that second change will cost money. The cost varies by region but is typically a few dollars. After 30 days from your first change, you get another free change.

If you make a mistake and want to change back to your old name within 30 days, that counts as a paid change. Think through your new name before you confirm it, because the free change is limited.

Troubleshooting: name already taken or won't confirm

If the name you want shows as taken, the app will display a list of similar alternatives. These suggestions add numbers or slight variations to your chosen name. You can pick one of these or go back and try a completely different name. There is no way to reserve a name or get on a waiting list — if it is taken, you need to choose something else.

If you enter your password and the app says it is incorrect, make sure you are typing your Microsoft account password, not your Xbox console password. These are the same thing if you use the same account, but if you have multiple accounts, confirm you are using the right one. If you have forgotten your password, tap "Forgot password" and follow Microsoft's recovery steps before trying again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my username on the Xbox app if I do not have an Xbox console?

Yes. Your Xbox account works across the app, console, and PC. You do not need to own a console to change your gamertag through the mobile app. The change will be ready to use if you ever get a console later.

Will my friends still see my old messages after I change my username?

Yes, old messages stay in the conversation thread. Your new gamertag appears on new messages you send, but the history of past conversations does not change. Friends can still see what you wrote before the name change.

What if I change my username and then want to change it back?

You can change back to your old name, but if you do it within 30 days of your first change, it will cost money. After 30 days, you get another free change. Plan ahead if you think you might want to revert.

Does changing my username affect my Xbox Game Pass or subscriptions?

No. Your Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, and any other subscriptions stay active and attached to your account. Changing your gamertag does not touch your billing or subscription status.

Can I use spaces or special characters in my new username?

No. Xbox usernames allow letters, numbers, and a few symbols, but not spaces, @ signs, # signs, or most punctuation. If you try to use a space or special character, the app will reject it and ask you to choose a different name.