Personalizing your Android device is one of the most enjoyable parts of owning a smartphone. One of the most noticeable ways to make your phone truly yours is by changing the app icons. Whether you’re going for a sleek, modern look or something playful and bold, Android gives you the flexibility to change app icons with ease. With the help of custom icon packs, launchers, or built-in tools, you can switch things up and give your home screen a fresh feel. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to change app icons on your Android phone, using different methods that suit your preferences.
How to Change App Icons on Android
Method 1: Using a Custom Launcher (Nova Launcher)
One of the easiest and most powerful ways to change app icons on Android is by using a third-party launcher like Nova Launcher. Launchers offer greater control over your home screen and allow you to install various icon packs, giving you complete freedom over how your app icons look.
- Download and install Nova Launcher from the Google Play Store.
- To set Nova Launcher as your default launcher, go to your phone’s Settings app, search for the Home app, and select Nova Launcher.
- Download an icon pack from the Google Play Store. There are many free options, such as Delta, Whicons, or CandyCons, as well as premium options for a more unique look.
- Open Nova Launcher’s settings. Long-press the home screen and select Settings or open the Nova Launcher settings app.
- Navigate to the “Look & Feel” section and tap Icon style.
- Choose your preferred icon pack from the list of installed icon packs.
- All the app icons will now change to reflect the new app icon pack.
Method 2: Changing Individual App Icons
You can also customize individual app icons instead of changing all the app icons at once!
- Long-press the app icon on your home screen.
- Select Edit or the pencil icon.
- Tap the app icon in the window that pops up.
- You can create a custom app icon by selecting an icon pack installed or a custom image from your gallery.
- Press Done, and the new app icon will appear on your home screen.
Method 3: Using Shortcut Maker for Custom Icons
If you want complete control over your icons without changing your entire launcher, Shortcut Maker is a handy app that lets you create custom icons for your apps.
- Download and install Shortcut Maker from the Google Play Store.
- Open Shortcut Maker and choose the app you want to create a custom icon.
- Tap the Create Shortcut button and select the icon style menu.
- Choose a new app shortcut from the icon packs installed or upload an image from your gallery.
- Tap Add to Home Screen, and you’ll see the new shortcut with your custom icon on your home screen.
Method 4: Changing App Icons with Built-in Options
Some Android devices, like Samsung’s Galaxy phones, support custom app icon theming through the One UI Theme Manager. Here’s how to use it:
- Open the One UI Theme Manager (found in Settings > Themes).
- Browse and download free or premium icon packs from Samsung’s theme store.
- Once downloaded, apply the icon pack, and the app icons on your phone will change to match the theme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I change app icons on any Android phone?
Yes, most Android phones support changing app icons. If your phone’s stock launcher doesn’t offer the option, you can always use a third-party launcher like Nova Launcher or apps like Shortcut Maker.
2. Are there free icon packs available?
Absolutely! The Google Play Store offers many must-have free icons, such as Viral, Glaze, and Lines. While premium icon packs are also available, many free options offer great designs.
3. What’s the difference between using a custom launcher and an icon-changing app?
A custom launcher (like Nova Launcher) changes the entire look and feel of your home screen, including the app drawer and gestures. Conversely, an icon-changing app like Shortcut Maker allows you to customize individual app icons without altering the overall launcher.
4. Will changing app icons affect the functionality of my apps?
No, changing the app icons won’t affect how the app works. It’s purely cosmetic, and the app shortcut or new app icon will still function as expected.
5. What are “themed icons”?
Themed icons match the overall color scheme or UI theme manager on your Android device. This feature is common in Google Pixel phones and Samsung Galaxy devices running One UI.
6. How do I revert to the original app icons?
To go back to the phone’s default launcher and original icons:
- For third-party launchers: Go to your phone’s Settings and switch back to the default launcher.
- For custom icon packs: In your launcher’s settings, choose the option to restore first-party app icons or remove the icon pack.