Changing the colors of apps on your iPhone can be a fun and creative way to customize your device and make it reflect your personal style. Whether you want to create a cohesive color scheme or simply add a pop of color to your home screen, there are several methods for changing app colors that you can explore. In this blog post, we will discuss various methods and steps you can take to change the colors of apps on your iPhone.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we dive into the methods, there are a few things you’ll need to get started. First, make sure you have a fully updated iPhone with the latest version of iOS installed. This will ensure that you have access to all the necessary features and settings. Additionally, you will need a stable internet connection to download any required apps or resources. It’s also helpful to have a clear vision of the color scheme or theme you want to achieve for your apps.
What Requires Your Focus?
To successfully change the colors of apps on your iPhone, you’ll need to focus on the following aspects:
1. App Icon Customization: This includes changing the colors and appearance of individual app icons. Some methods may involve creating custom icons or using third-party apps to achieve the desired effect.
2. Home Screen Organization: Changing the colors of apps often involves reorganizing your home screen to create a visually pleasing layout. You will need to decide on the placement and arrangement of apps to create the desired color scheme.
3. App Themes and Skins: Some methods allow you to apply pre-designed themes or skins to your apps. This can instantly change the colors and overall appearance of multiple apps at once.
4. Accessibility Settings: iPhone’s accessibility settings offer options for adjusting the color contrast, display filters, and other visual settings. These settings can enhance the overall appearance and readability of your apps.
Now let’s explore the methods you can use to change the colors of apps on your iPhone.
Method 1: Using the Shortcuts App
The Shortcuts app is a powerful tool that allows you to automate tasks on your iPhone. By creating custom shortcuts, you can change the colors of app icons. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Download and open the Shortcuts app from the App Store if you don’t already have it installed.
Step 2: Tap on the “+” icon to create a new shortcut.
Step 3: Tap on “Add Action” and search for “Open App.”
Step 4: Select “Open App” and choose the app you want to change the color for.
Step 5: Tap on the three dots (…) at the top right corner of the screen and select “Add to Home Screen.”
Step 6: Tap on the icon next to “Home Screen Name and Icon” and choose “Choose File.”
Step 7: Select the image with the desired color for the app icon and tap “Choose.”
Step 8: Customize the name of the shortcut if desired and tap “Add.”
Pros Cons
1. Easy to use. 1. Requires manual setup for each app.
2. No additional apps 2. Shortcut icons may not match perfectly
required. with the original app icons.
3. Can be combined 3. Changes made through the Shortcuts app
with other actions may be overwritten by iOS updates.
Method 2: Via Icon Themer Apps
Icon themer apps provide a simple and convenient way to change the colors of app icons on your iPhone. These apps offer a wide range of pre-designed icon packs that can instantly transform the appearance of your apps. Here’s how you can use an icon themer app:
Step 1: Download and install an icon themer app from the App Store. Some popular options include “App Icon Changer” or “Aesthetic Kit.”
Step 2: Open the app and browse through the available icon packs.
Step 3: Select the icon pack that matches your desired color scheme or theme.
Step 4: Follow the app’s instructions to apply the icon pack to your desired apps.
Pros Cons
1. Saves time by 1. Limited customization options.
providing ready-to- 2. Some apps may not be supported
use icon packs. by all icon themer apps.
2. Easy to apply icons 3. Free versions may have limited
to multiple apps. features and designs.
Method 3: Using Widgets and Smart Stacks
iOS 14 introduced widgets, which allow you to add dynamic and customizable information to your home screen, including app icons. By utilizing widgets and smart stacks, you can change the colors and appearance of app shortcuts. Here’s how:
Step 1: Long-press on an empty space on your home screen until the apps start to jiggle.
Step 2: Tap the “+” icon at the top left corner of the screen to add a widget.
Step 3: Scroll down and search for “Smart Stack” or “Widgets.”
Step 4: Select the widget size you prefer and tap “Add Widget.”
Step 5: Tap on the newly added widget to customize it.
Step 6: Swipe right or left on the widget to select the desired app. You can also tap “Edit Stack” to add or remove apps from the widget.
Pros Cons
1. Offers dynamic and 1. Limited customization options
customizable home compared to some other methods.
screen features. 2. The appearance of icons may change
2. Allows you to change based on the data displayed in
the colors of app the widget.
icons via widgets. 3. Limited widget sizes and placement
options.
Method 4: Changing Appearance in Settings
iOS 15 introduced the ability to change the appearance of app icons, including color, shape, and size, directly in the Settings app. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Step 2: Go to “Display & Brightness” and then tap on “App Library Only.”
Step 3: Long-press on an app icon until a menu appears.
Step 4: Select “Edit Home Screen.”
Step 5: Tap on the app icon you want to change.
Step 6: Choose a color, shape, or size for the app icon from the available options.
Step 7: Tap “Done” to save the changes.
Pros Cons
1. Easy to change 1. Limited customization options.
app icon appearance 2. Changes are limited to the app icons
directly in Settings. and don’t affect the overall color
2. No need to download scheme or layout of the home screen.
additional apps.
Why Can’t I Change the Colors of Some Apps?
There are a few reasons why you may not be able to change the colors of certain apps:
1. App Restrictions: Some apps have restrictions in place that prevent any changes to their appearance, including app icon customization.
2. App Store Guidelines: App developers must adhere to certain guidelines set by the App Store, which may prohibit changes to the app’s appearance.
3. Design Choices: Some apps have specific branding or design choices that cannot be altered by users.
If you encounter this issue, here are some possible fixes:
1. Check for App Updates: Make sure you have the latest version of the app installed. Developers may introduce customizability options in future updates.
2. Contact App Support: Reach out to the app’s support team and inquire about the possibility of customizing the app’s appearance. They may have specific instructions or alternative methods.
3. Explore Alternative Apps: If the app you want to customize does not allow changes, consider exploring alternative apps that offer similar functionality and customization options.
Implications and Recommendations
When changing the colors of apps on your iPhone, there are a few implications to consider:
1. Visual Consistency: Strive for a visually consistent color scheme to make your home screen look polished and unified.
2. Legibility: Ensure that the colors you choose for app icons make them easily recognizable and readable.
3. Keep it Manageable: Avoid overwhelming your home screen with too many colorful icons, as it can make it difficult to locate specific apps.
Recommendations:
1. Experiment and Have Fun: Play around with various methods and color options to find a combination that reflects your personal style and preferences.
2. Back Up your Device: Before making any significant changes to your home screen, it is always a good idea to back up your device to ensure you can easily revert to a previous state if needed.
3. Stay Updated: Keep an eye on app updates and new features that may introduce additional customization options in the future.
5 FAQs about Changing App Colors
Q1: Can I change the colors of system apps like Settings and Calendar?
A: Unfortunately, system apps like Settings and Calendar cannot be changed using the methods mentioned in this blog post. They have their own design and appearance restrictions.
Q2: Do I need to jailbreak my iPhone to change app colors?
A: No, all the methods mentioned in this blog post can be done without jailbreaking your iPhone. These methods utilize existing features and apps available on the App Store.
Q3: Will changing app colors affect app functionality?
A: No, changing the colors of app icons will not affect the functionality of the apps. It is purely a visual customization that does not interfere with the underlying app processes.
Q4: Can I revert to the original app icons after customization?
A: Yes, you can easily revert to the original app icons by deleting the shortcuts created through the Shortcuts app or by uninstalling the icon themer app.
Q5: Will changing app colors consume more battery?
A: No, changing the colors of app icons will not have a noticeable impact on battery consumption. The changes are visual and do not involve additional processing or background tasks.
Final Words
Changing the colors of apps on your iPhone is a great way to express your creativity and personalize your device. Whether you prefer a subtle color scheme or a vibrant and bold look, the methods discussed in this blog post offer various options for customization. Remember to experiment, have fun, and create a home screen that truly reflects your individual style.