Choosing a name for your application is a foundational step in shaping its identity and position in the marketplace. A well-chosen name is a marketing tool that helps users recall and find your app. This decision influences branding, online presence, and the ease with which potential customers can connect with your product.
Qualities of a Great App Name
A strong app name is memorable, making it easy for users to remember and share. It should also be simple to spell and pronounce, as users who struggle to say or type the name will have difficulty finding it. This simplicity is important for both voice search and word-of-mouth marketing.
Relevance to the app’s function is another attribute. A name that hints at the app’s purpose can instantly communicate its value to potential users. This clarity can improve your app’s visibility and download rate in the app stores.
Uniqueness helps your app stand out and avoid confusion with competitors. A distinctive name helps build a strong brand identity. The name should also be available across platforms, including social media and web domains, to ensure consistent branding.
Brainstorming Strategies
Focus on the App’s Core Function
A direct approach is to create a name that clearly describes what your app does, like “Google Maps” or “Adobe Photoshop.” This strategy prioritizes clarity, helping users understand the app’s value before they download it. A descriptive name often incorporates keywords that your target audience uses in searches, making your app easier to discover. While this approach may seem less creative, its straightforwardness is a strength where function is the main selling point.
Use Word Association and AI Tools
To explore creative options, use word association techniques. Start with a list of words that describe your app’s features, benefits, and target audience. A thesaurus or a mind map can help you find synonyms and related concepts that might spark a unique name idea.
AI-powered name generators are another tool in the brainstorming process. These platforms allow you to input keywords related to your app, and they will generate a list of potential names. While not all suggestions will be perfect, they can provide a fresh perspective and help discover new word combinations.
Combine or Modify Words
Creating a new word by blending two existing ones, a portmanteau, can result in a catchy and memorable name. Think of names like “Instagram” (Instant Camera + Telegram) or “Pinterest” (Pin + Interest). This technique allows you to create a unique term that is still rooted in familiar concepts.
Another strategy is to modify an existing word by adding a prefix or suffix, or by slightly altering its spelling. This can help you create a name that is short, unique, and brandable. This approach can make a common word feel new and distinctive, while retaining a connection to a familiar idea.
Try an Evocative or Abstract Concept
Some brand names evoke a feeling or an idea rather than describing a literal function. Names like “Tinder” or “Uber” suggest the experience or benefit of the app without being explicit. This approach can create a sense of curiosity and encourage potential users to learn more.
Choosing an abstract name gives you a blank canvas to build a brand story around. These names are often short, memorable, and have a modern feel. The challenge is that it requires more marketing effort to educate your audience about your app’s purpose, but a successful name can become strongly associated with your app’s value.
Checking for Availability
After you have a shortlist of names, you must verify their availability. Be cautious of names that are very similar to established apps, as this could lead to user confusion or legal issues. Check the following areas for a consistent brand identity:
- App Stores: Search the Apple App Store and Google Play Store to see if your desired name is already in use.
- Domain Name: Use a domain registrar to see if the .com version and other relevant extensions are available for your website.
- Social Media: Check for available handles that match your app name on sites like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook.
- Trademarks: Conduct a basic search of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database and equivalents in other countries to avoid infringing on intellectual property.
Getting Feedback and Making the Final Choice
Once you have a list of available names, gather feedback from your target audience. You can create a survey with your top choices or have direct conversations with potential users. Ask which name they find most appealing, easiest to pronounce, and most relevant to the app’s function.
Saying the names out loud and asking for immediate impressions can also reveal unintended meanings or negative connotations. While this feedback is informative, the final decision is yours. Choose the name that best represents your app’s identity, purpose, and long-term goals.