Google Camera automatically names photos and videos using a sequential format (e.g., "PXL_YYYYMMDD_HHMMSSXXX.jpg") when captured on an Android device. This differs from manually assigning descriptive names; it's an automatic system log. Renaming means altering this default name after the file exists, using your device's file management tools or a connected computer.

You can rename files directly on your Android phone using apps like Google Files or Google Photos. Open the file within the app, select the "More options" menu (three dots), then "Rename". On a Windows PC or Mac, connect your phone, browse to the DCIM/Camera folder, select a file, press F2 (or right-click > Rename), and type a new name. These are common practical methods.

Renaming helps organize content with custom labels (e.g., "Birthday_Cake.jpg"). However, the original timestamp might become less obvious if you remove it. Crucially, renaming does not alter the photo/video data itself or crucial EXIF metadata (like creation date/time or location). Ensure any new name aids organization without obscuring important provenance information when archiving files.