The notification bar on Android serves as a central hub for all your incoming notifications, including messages, emails, and app updates. While it may seem like a small aspect of your device, customizing the color of the notification bar can make a significant impact on your overall user experience. Whether you want to personalize your device or simply make it easier to differentiate between notifications, changing the notification bar color is a simple and effective way to achieve this. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to change the notification bar color on Android.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change the Notification Bar Color
There are several reasons why you may want to change the color of your notification bar on Android. Firstly, personalization is key when it comes to technology, and being able to customize the appearance of your device allows you to make it truly yours. Changing the notification bar color can help you create a device that reflects your personality and style.
Additionally, changing the notification bar color can improve the accessibility of your device. By selecting a color that contrasts with your wallpaper or theme, you can enhance visibility and make it easier to identify new notifications at a glance. This can be particularly useful for individuals with visual impairments or those who simply want a more user-friendly interface.
Method 1: Using Custom Launchers
Custom launchers are an excellent way to customize the appearance of your Android device, including the notification bar color. These third-party applications allow you to change various aspects of your device’s interface, giving you full control over its appearance. Here’s how you can change the notification bar color using custom launchers:
1. Start by downloading and installing a custom launcher from the Google Play Store. Some popular options include Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher, and Action Launcher.
2. Open the custom launcher and navigate to its settings menu. This can usually be accessed by long-pressing on the home screen and selecting “Settings” or by tapping on the launcher’s app icon and finding the settings within.
3. Look for the customization options related to the notification bar color. The specific location may vary depending on the launcher you are using, but it is often found under the “Appearance” or “Themes” section.
4. Once you locate the notification bar color settings, select your desired color from the available options or enter a custom hexadecimal color code.
5. After making your selection, exit the settings menu and observe the changes to your notification bar color. You may need to restart your device or launcher for the changes to take effect.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Custom launchers offer a wide range of customization options beyond just the notification bar color. | 1. Some custom launchers may require a bit of a learning curve for newcomers. |
| 2. Changing the notification bar color using a custom launcher is a non-invasive method that can be easily reverted. | 2. Custom launchers may not be compatible with all devices or Android versions. |
| 3. Custom launchers often provide additional features and enhancements, allowing for a more personalized experience. | 3. Certain custom launchers may have limitations or bugs that can affect device performance. |
Method 2: Via Third-Party Apps
If you prefer not to make extensive changes to your device’s interface using custom launchers, you can still change the notification bar color by using third-party apps specifically designed for this purpose. These apps often provide a simple and straightforward solution for customizing the appearance of the notification bar. Follow these steps to change the notification bar color via third-party apps:
1. Visit the Google Play Store and search for “notification bar color changer” or a similar keyword.
2. Select a suitable app that has positive reviews and a high rating.
3. Download and install the chosen app onto your device.
4. Launch the app and grant the necessary permissions for it to access the notification bar.
5. Explore the app’s interface and locate the option to customize the notification bar color.
6. Choose your desired color or enter a custom hexadecimal color code.
7. Apply the changes and exit the app.
8. Observe the modifications to your notification bar color.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Third-party apps provide a quick and easy solution for changing the notification bar color. | 1. The options for customization may be limited compared to custom launchers. |
| 2. These apps are often user-friendly and require minimal technical knowledge. | 2. Some apps may include ads or require in-app purchases to unlock additional features. |
| 3. Changing the notification bar color via third-party apps is reversible, allowing you to revert to the default color if needed. | 3. Compatibility issues may arise with certain devices or Android versions. |
Method 3: Utilizing System Accessibility Settings
Android devices offer built-in accessibility settings that can be utilized to change the color of the notification bar. These settings are primarily designed to cater to individuals with visual impairments but can be used by anyone who wants to personalize their device. Follow these steps to change the notification bar color using system accessibility settings:
1. Go to the “Settings” app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and select “Accessibility.”
3. Look for the option labeled “Color inversion” or “Color correction.”
4. Enable the color inversion or correction feature.
5. Observe the changes to your device’s interface, including the notification bar color. If the inversion or correction does not produce the desired effect, you can experiment with different settings.
6. Once you are satisfied with the new color, you can disable the color inversion or correction feature if necessary.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Accessible to all Android devices without the need for additional apps or custom launchers. | 1. The color inversion or correction may affect the appearance of other elements, such as images or icons. |
| 2. Quick and simple method that can be easily toggled on or off. | 2. Limited customization options compared to custom launchers or third-party apps. |
| 3. Can be beneficial for individuals with visual impairments or sensitivities to certain color combinations. | 3. The color inversion or correction may have unintended side effects on certain apps or user interfaces. |
Method 4: Making System-Level Modifications
For advanced users who are comfortable with system-level modifications, it is possible to change the notification bar color by modifying system files. This method requires root access, meaning you must have administrative privileges on your Android device. Proceed with caution and only attempt this method if you fully understand the risks and consequences involved. Here’s how you can change the notification bar color by making system-level modifications:
1. Root your Android device by following a reputable guide specific to your device and Android version.
2. Install a file explorer with root access, such as ES File Explorer.
3. Open the file explorer and navigate to the system folder, usually located at “/system.”
4. Find the “framework-res.apk” file and make a backup copy of it.
5. Locate the “res” folder within the framework-res.apk file.
6. Access the folder containing the XML files for the notification bar. This is often labeled “values” or “styles.”
7. Look for the XML file that controls the colors of the notification bar. The specific file name may vary depending on your Android version and manufacturer.
8. Open the XML file in a text editor within the file explorer or on your computer.
9. Locate the line of code that specifies the color of the notification bar.
10. Change the hexadecimal color code to your desired color or replace it with a color variable.
11. Save the modified XML file and exit the text editor.
12. Replace the original framework-res.apk file with the modified one.
13. Restart your Android device to apply the changes to the notification bar color.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Offers complete control over the notification bar color, allowing for highly customized results. | 1. Requires technical knowledge and advanced understanding of Android system files. |
| 2. The changes made through system-level modifications are applied universally, affecting all apps and interfaces. | 2. Rooting your device can void the warranty and potentially lead to irreversible damage or security vulnerabilities. |
| 3. By modifying system files, you can achieve unique and creative color combinations that may not be available through other methods. | 3. Incorrect modification of system files can result in a bricked device or loss of data. |
What to Do If You Can’t Change the Notification Bar Color
If you encounter difficulties when attempting to change the notification bar color on your Android device, don’t worry. There are a few options you can explore to troubleshoot the issue:
1. Check the compatibility of the method you are using with your device and Android version. Some methods may not work with certain devices or versions, so it’s essential to ensure compatibility.
2. Restart your device. Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve minor software glitches.
3. Consult online forums or communities dedicated to Android customization. You may find solutions or alternative methods that can help you achieve your desired notification bar color.
4. Consider trying another method. If one method does not work, there are multiple alternatives available. Experiment with different methods until you find one that works for your device.
Bonus Tips
1. Explore additional customization options offered by custom launchers or third-party apps, such as icon packs, wallpapers, and gestures. These features can further enhance the personalization of your device.
2. Regularly backup your device before attempting system-level modifications or rooting. This ensures that you can restore your data in case any issues arise during the process.
3. Customize other aspects of your device, such as the font style, lock screen, and app icons, to create a cohesive and personalized experience.
5 FAQs
Q1: Is rooting my device necessary to change the notification bar color?
A1: No, rooting is not required to change the notification bar color. Methods such as custom launchers and third-party apps provide non-root solutions for customization.
Q2: Can changing the notification bar color affect the performance of my device?
A2: No, changing the notification bar color should not significantly impact the performance of your device. However, heavily modifying system files through root access can introduce potential risks.
Q3: Will changing the notification bar color void my device’s warranty?
A3: Methods such as using custom launchers or third-party apps will not void your device’s warranty. However, rooting your device carries potential risks and may void the warranty.
Q4: Are there any limitations to the colors I can choose for the notification bar?
A4: The color options available for the notification bar depend on the method or app you are using. Some methods offer a wide range of color choices, while others may have specific pre-defined options.
Q5: Can I revert back to the default notification bar color if I change my mind?
A5: Yes, all the methods mentioned in this blog post allow you to revert back to the default notification bar color by reversing the changes made.
Final Thoughts
Changing the notification bar color on your Android device can breathe new life into your user experience. Whether you opt for custom launchers, third-party apps, system accessibility settings, or system-level modifications, the methods provided in this blog post offer a variety of ways to personalize your device. Remember to consider the compatibility of each method with your device and Android version, and proceed with caution when making system-level modifications. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can transform your device’s notification bar into a vibrant and eye-catching element that reflects your individuality.