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name display in messages

The names are not showing up in messages, just an icon for each person. How can I change it back to showing the full name?

iMac (2)

Posted on Jul 23, 2023 4:06 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 24, 2023 6:14 PM

Hey there KBLF,


Thanks for reaching out to the Apple Support Communities. To get started, have you tried adjusting the window width that separates the contact list with conversation? We ask because if the center line that separates your contact list and conversation is moved all the way to he left, expanding the width of the conversation window, the contacts will only appear as icons.


If you've tried adjusting the window widths, are you not seeing the names for any contacts in the Messages app, or does the issue only occur with certain contacts? If all contacts, try closing and reopening the Messages app, and if that doesn't work restart your iMac with the steps shown here: Shut down or restart your Mac - Apple Support


Restart your Mac
* On your Mac, choose Apple menu  > Restart.
* If you don’t want app windows that are open to reopen when your Mac restarts, deselect “Reopen windows when logging back in.”


While restarting may seem like a simple step, it can often help with resolving some unexpected issues like this. If still having issues after restarting your iMac, can you let us know which macOS version you're working with?


We look forward to hearing back from you.


Take care!

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 24, 2023 6:14 PM in response to KBLF

Hey there KBLF,


Thanks for reaching out to the Apple Support Communities. To get started, have you tried adjusting the window width that separates the contact list with conversation? We ask because if the center line that separates your contact list and conversation is moved all the way to he left, expanding the width of the conversation window, the contacts will only appear as icons.


If you've tried adjusting the window widths, are you not seeing the names for any contacts in the Messages app, or does the issue only occur with certain contacts? If all contacts, try closing and reopening the Messages app, and if that doesn't work restart your iMac with the steps shown here: Shut down or restart your Mac - Apple Support


Restart your Mac
* On your Mac, choose Apple menu  > Restart.
* If you don’t want app windows that are open to reopen when your Mac restarts, deselect “Reopen windows when logging back in.”


While restarting may seem like a simple step, it can often help with resolving some unexpected issues like this. If still having issues after restarting your iMac, can you let us know which macOS version you're working with?


We look forward to hearing back from you.


Take care!

name display in messages

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