Understanding how to change app icons on Android offers a simple method for personalizing a device but the process may be very challenging. Typically, users utilize third-party applications and launchers to unlock the full potential to change app icons on Android devices.
Unlike many Android smartphones and tablets, Google’s Pixel launcher does not offer the use of icon packs or the change of app icons. Additionally, users turn to third-party launchers to modify the visual representation of their app icons. Even if your phone’s default launcher permits the change of app icons, it might not support third-party icon packs available on the Google Play Store.
Moreover, there is an approach on how to change app icons on your launcher of an unsupported Android device. It involves manual replacement of each app’s icon, resulting in a time-consuming process.
How to Change App Icons on Android
To change app icons on Android presents an excellent opportunity for customizing your device and adding a personal touch to its appearance. Depending on your Android device and the launcher in use, there are several methods available for modifying app icons.
If you intend to use a third-party launcher with combined icon theme support can ease the process, preventing the need for additional manual steps. Moreover, most Android launchers offer custom icon pack compatibility, simplifying the task of theming your device.
Third-party launchers offer the flexibility to alter the icons of both pre-installed (first-party) and downloaded (third-party) applications. Furthermore, the process differs depending on the specific custom home launcher you choose.
How To Modify App Icons On Samsung Galaxy
Changing app icons on a Samsung phone is similar to the process on other Android versions. However, Samsung provides its theme store with additional options.
Samsung’s One UI theme manager enables users to personalize their phone’s home screen by changing app icons and customizing its appearance. However, the One UI theme manager supports only modification of first-party app icons, resulting in an inconsistent visual experience for third-party applications.
To change the app icons on your Samsung Galaxy device, follow these steps:
- Access the Settings menu on your Samsung Galaxy phone.
- Scroll down and choose Themes.
- Select the Icons tab located at the bottom of the screen.
- Then, a featured section showing app icon packs selected by Samsung, and the Top section displaying the most popular icon packs.
- Choose the app icon pack you’re interested in and select the Download button.
- Navigate to the Featured section and locate either the Top Free Icons or Must-Have Free Icons category.
- Select the Top tab, then open the drop-down menu labeled All, and choose Free to view the available free icon packs.
- Select the Apply button to install the app icon pack.
It’s important to note that the One UI Home launcher is only accessible to Samsung Galaxy users which are found in the Themes Store. In other words, it’s not compatible with third-party launchers.
How to Change App Icons on Android Alternatives
Most Android devices come with a default launcher that doesn’t support customizing the stock icons. However, various alternatives can help users to change app icons on their Android phones.
This alternative includes Shortcut Maker which is considered the best shortcut app, Nova Launcher, X icon Changer, Apex, ADW, Action Launcher, and more. Before following the steps on how to change Apps Icons on Android alternatives, you have to download your preferred icon pack from the Google Play Store. This will save you time and allow you to apply your favorite icon pack instantly.
How to Change App Icons on Shortcut Maker
Shortcut Maker offers an alternative method to change individual app icons on your phone, whether they are first-party or third-party apps. This popular tool allows you to customize the icons displayed on your home screen.
To utilize Shortcut Maker for changing app icons, follow these steps:
- Download Shortcut Maker on your Android device from the Google Play Store.
- Tap Got it to proceed with the setup process.
- Select Apps from the main menu to view the list of installed applications.
- Choose the specific app for which you wish to change the icon.
- Tap on the Icon section within the settings menu that appears for the selected app. This will display the available icons from the icon packs installed on your device under the Available Icons part.
- Go through the available icons and select the one that you prefer.
- Customize the style and theme of the selected app icon by navigating through the Style and Themed tabs.
- Once satisfied with your choices, tap the checkmark icon located in the upper-right corner to confirm your selection.
- Finally, tap the Create Shortcut button to add the new app icon to your home screen. Based on your Android device, you should verify this action by tapping Add from a dialog box.
Shortcut Maker makes a new app shortcut featuring the icon, but its change is restricted to that specific shortcut. However, the original app shortcut with its initial logo persists in your phone’s app drawer, resulting in an inconsistent user experience.
Using custom app icons enhances your Android experience, offering a personalized touch. Additionally, we suggest updating your customization settings every few months to use new features and keep your device unique.