Change your username directly in the Xbox app

You can change your Xbox username through the Xbox app on your phone without needing a computer or console. Open the Xbox app, tap your profile picture in the top left corner, select Profile, then tap Customize profile. From there, select Gamertag and enter your new username. The app will check whether it's available and let you know the cost — most changes cost 800 Microsoft Points, though your first change is free.

The entire process takes about two minutes once you've decided on a name. Microsoft checks your new username against their code of conduct rules before confirming it, so offensive or trademarked names will be rejected when ready. If your choice is rejected, the app tells you why and you can try again.

After you confirm the change, your new gamertag appears across Xbox Live, Game Pass, and any games linked to your account. Friends see the change right away, though it may take a few minutes to update in some older games.

Key Takeaways

  • Your first Xbox username change is free; any change after that costs 800 Microsoft Points.
  • The Xbox app checks your new name against Microsoft's code of conduct before confirming, and rejects names that are offensive or match trademarked terms.
  • Your new gamertag updates across Xbox Live and Game Pass when ready, though some older games may take a few minutes to reflect the change.
  • You need an active internet connection and must be signed into your Microsoft account to change your username through the app.

What happens if your chosen name is already taken

When you enter a name in the Gamertag field, the app checks Xbox Live's database in real time. If someone else already has that exact name, the app shows "This gamertag is not available" and suggests similar alternatives. You cannot reserve a name or join a waitlist — you must choose a different one.

The app's suggestions often add numbers or slight variations to your original choice. You can ignore these and type something completely different. Keep trying new names until you find one that shows "This gamertag is available" in green text.

Understanding the cost and payment method

Microsoft Points are the currency used for most Xbox purchases. You buy them through the Microsoft Store on your phone or through your Xbox account settings. A pack of 800 Points costs around $10, though the exact price varies by region and current promotions.

Your first gamertag change is free as a one-time benefit. After that, each change costs 800 Points. If you don't have enough Points in your account, the app prompts you to buy more before confirming the change. You can use a credit card, debit card, or gift card linked to your Microsoft account.

If you change your mind after paying, Microsoft does not refund the Points. However, you can change your gamertag back to your old name at any time by paying the Points fee again.

Troubleshooting when the app won't let you change your name

If the Customize profile option is grayed out or missing, you may not be signed into the correct account. Sign out completely by tapping your profile picture and selecting Sign out, then sign back in with the account you want to change. The app sometimes requires you to restart after signing in again.

If you see an error message like "Something went wrong" or "We couldn't complete your request," your internet connection may be unstable. Switch to a different Wi-Fi network or use mobile data instead. Wait a few seconds and try again. If the error persists, close the Xbox app completely and reopen it.

Some accounts have restrictions that prevent name changes — this usually happens if the account is a child account managed by a parent or if there's a suspension on the account. If you're managing a child account, you need to change the setting in the parent controls section of your own account first.

How long the change takes to show up everywhere

Your new gamertag appears in the Xbox app and on Xbox Live within seconds of confirmation. Friends' friend lists update within a few minutes. However, some games — especially older titles or games that don't connect to Xbox Live regularly — may show your old name for several hours or even a day.

If a game still shows your old gamertag after 24 hours, that game may not sync with Xbox Live automatically. Restarting the game or signing out and back in usually forces it to refresh your profile information.

Changing your name back to a previous gamertag

You can reclaim a gamertag you used before, but only if nobody else has claimed it in the meantime. If your old name is available, it appears as an option in the Gamertag field with a note saying "Previously used by you." Changing back to a previous name still costs 800 Points (except for your one free change if you haven't used it yet).

If someone else has taken your old gamertag, you cannot get it back. Microsoft does not hold reserved names for former users. Your only option is to choose a different name.

What to know about gamertag rules and restrictions

Microsoft rejects names that contain profanity, slurs, or references to illegal activity. Names that match registered trademarks — like brand names or celebrity names — are also blocked. The system flags these automatically and tells you the name violates the code of conduct without explaining which rule it broke.

Gamertags can be 3 to 15 characters long and can include letters, numbers, and spaces. You cannot use special characters like hyphens, underscores, or periods. If you try to use a character that isn't allowed, the app shows an error and won't let you proceed.

Your gamertag is public and visible to everyone on Xbox Live. It appears on your profile, in game lobbies, and in leaderboards. Choose a name you're comfortable with other players seeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Xbox username on the app if I'm using a child account?

Child accounts have restrictions set by the parent or guardian. You need to ask the account owner to change the parental control settings first. They can do this through their own account settings under "Family" or "Child accounts." Once they allow profile changes, you can use the app to pick a new gamertag.

What if I don't have 800 Microsoft Points and don't want to buy them?

Your first gamertag change is free, so if you haven't changed your name before, you can do it without spending money. After that, you must purchase Points to change again. There is no way to change your name without paying after your free change is used.

Will my friends still be able to find me after I change my gamertag?

Yes. Your friends list stays the same, and they see your new name when ready. They don't need to re-add you or do anything on their end. Your account history, achievements, and game progress all stay linked to your new gamertag.

Can I change my Xbox username more than once?

Yes, you can change your gamertag as many times as you want. Each change after your first one costs 800 Microsoft Points. There is no limit on how often you can change it, but you must wait a few minutes between changes.

Does changing my gamertag affect my Game Pass or Xbox Live Gold subscription?

No. Your subscriptions stay active and linked to your account. Your Game Pass games, achievements, and online multiplayer access all continue to work with your new gamertag. You don't need to renew or reactivate anything.