How to Change Comment Display Name in Word and Excel for iPad
Question details
The user wants to know how to change the name displayed above comments in Word and Excel for iPad, as it currently defaults to the email address linked to their Microsoft account.
- Product
- Microsoft Word and Excel
- Device & OS
- iPad (iPadOS)
- Scenario
- Reviewing and adding comments to documents or spreadsheets on an iPad.
- Observed behavior
- The comment author's name displays as the Microsoft account email address instead of a preferred display name, and the user cannot find a setting to change it within the app.
Ensure your Microsoft Word and Excel apps are updated to the latest versions from the App Store, as Microsoft occasionally moves or updates profile management features in newer releases.
Update Microsoft Profile and App Settings
Since older versions of the iPad apps lack a direct 'User Name' setting, you must manage your display name through your Microsoft Account online and ensure your apps are fully updated.
Historically, Microsoft Word and Excel for iPad did not include the localized 'User Name' customization found in desktop versions. Instead, the iPad apps pull the display name directly from the Microsoft Account profile you used to sign in. If your profile lacks a display name, it defaults to your email address.
Open a web browser, navigate to the Microsoft Account management page, and log in. Go to 'Your info' and edit your profile name to your preferred display name.
Open the App Store on your iPad, search for Microsoft Word and Excel, and tap 'Update' if a newer version is available.
Open Word or Excel on your iPad, tap your profile icon in the top corner, and sign out. Close the app completely, reopen it, and sign back in to force the app to fetch your newly updated profile name.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Review on iPad
If you are frustrated by missing features or account syncing limitations in Microsoft Office for iPad, WPS Office offers a powerful, free, and lightweight alternative. It provides an intuitive interface for managing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations directly on your mobile devices.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Search for WPS Office in the iPad App Store and download the application for free.
- 2. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word or Excel documents directly from your device or cloud storage.
- 3. Add Comments Easily: Navigate to the Review tab to insert, view, and manage comments without worrying about complex account syncing issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my email address show up in Word comments on my iPad?
On iPadOS, Microsoft Word often pulls your comment display name directly from your Microsoft Account credentials. If a specific first and last name isn't set in your online profile, it defaults to the email address associated with the account.
Can I change the comment name in the desktop version of Word?
Yes. In the desktop version of Microsoft Word for Windows, you can change the comment name by going to File > Options > General, and updating the 'User name' and 'Initials' fields under the 'Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office' section.
Will changing my Microsoft account name online immediately fix the comment name on my iPad?
Not always immediately. Updating your profile name on the Microsoft Account website is the correct step, but you usually need to sign out and sign back into the Word or Excel app on your iPad to force the new name to sync.
