From CNET.com….
YouTube creators are finally getting a highly requested new feature. Creators are now able to easily change their YouTube channel name and profile picture to better reflect their content — without updating the name and photo associated with their Google account.
The change will help keep your YouTube name and content separate from your Google services, such as Gmail and Google Docs. That way if you need to send an email for school or work, your real name will appear, not your YouTube name.
Important note: If you’re verified on YouTube and change your channel name, you’ll lose your verification badge and need to reapply. But there will be no impact on your custom URL or Official Channel Music Note if you change your name.
Here’s how to change your YouTube channel name and profile picture, without updating your Google account name, on either mobile or desktop.