Some iOS versions shorten contact names by default in the Messages app so that it only show full names in messages. This is done to maintain a neat appearance and to prevent name truncation on iPhone screens by preventing a contact’s name from crossing over with navigational elements.
If you have contacts with similar first names, which is probably just about everyone, there is a clear issue with this default setting. On your iPhone, you may have encountered a problem where, whenever you receive a message, the Messages app displays the sender’s phone number rather than the saved contact name.
Even if you have someone’s phone number saved on your phone, you can’t see who has actually tried to message you, which can be quite annoying.
show full names in messages
To show full names with emailing or texting people, simply open up the Settings app and navigate to Mail, Contacts, Calendars > Short Name. There will be two settings here: Short Name and Prefer Nicknames. If you want your text messages and email to always show the full name of a contact, turn both of these settings off.
However, if you want a little more customization, you can enable Short Name, and you’ll then be presented with a menu of options for how you want names to appear. First Name & Last Initial, First Initial & Last Name, First Name Only, and Last Name Only are the options available. If they don’t want the full names to appear, most people can typically choose the First Name & Last Initial option and still be comfortable if they have multiple contacts with the same first name.
FAQ
How do you show first and last name on iPhone Messages?
- Open Settings and go to “Mail, Contacts, Calendars” then scroll down to the ‘Contacts’ section.
- Select “Short Name” and flip “Short Name” to OFF to display the full name of contacts.
- Go back to Messages and open an individual thread to see the change.
Can I see the name in iMessage?
Owners of iPhones and iPads can create an iMessage profile in the Messages app starting with iOS 13 that includes a personalised photo and display name. Those you message on iMessage can see your name and profile picture, which you set.
How do you make someone’s name blue in messages?
When you’re done typing the first or last name, it will turn grey; tap it. You’ll see that person’s full name and profile picture in a pop-up. Tap it to choose that contact. Now, you’ll see a little animation where the person’s name turns blue.