Changing the icons on your iPhone is a simple process that gives your home screen a fresh look without altering any of your data. Whether you want to personalize your apps with custom designs or organize your layout by color, this guide walks you through every method available. You can update icons for individual apps or transform your entire interface using built-in tools and third-party shortcuts.
Using Shortcuts to Create Custom Icons
The Shortcuts app is the most flexible way to change an app icon on iOS. This method creates a new shortcut that opens the original app while displaying your chosen image as the icon.
Creating a New Shortcut
Begin by opening the Shortcuts app and tapping the plus sign in the top right corner to create a new automation. Add the "Open App" action and select the application you want to modify from the list. Next, tap the three dots in the top right corner, choose "Add to Home Screen," and enter a name for the shortcut. The key step is tapping the icon next to the name to select a photo or emoji to replace the default symbol.
Adding the Shortcut to Your Home Screen
Once you have selected your image, tap "Add" in the upper right corner. You will be taken back to your home screen where you can place the new shortcut. To complete the change, you must locate the original app, press and hold it, and select "Remove from Home Screen." This ensures that only your new, customized icon remains visible on the main view of your device.
Applying Widgets as Icon Covers
Widgets offer a semi-transparent alternative for users who want to overlay an image on top of an existing app icon. This technique is popular for adding aesthetic elements like gradients, patterns, or blurred colors without losing access to the app.
Setting Up the Widget Method
Navigate to the Today View by swiping right from your home screen, then scroll to the bottom and select "Edit." Find the widget you want to use, such as "Scriptable" or a blank utility widget, and add it to your current page. Tap the widget to configure it, replacing the default text with your chosen image and adjusting the transparency to align perfectly over the app icon below.
Positioning the Widget
After configuring the widget, you must resize and drag it to sit directly on top of the target app icon. You may need to adjust the size slightly to ensure the app name remains readable while the new design sits neatly on top. Note that this method works best on your primary home screen page, as widgets do not always interact seamlessly with folders.
Downloading Icon Packs from the App Store
For users who prefer a complete system overhaul, the App Store offers a variety of icon packs that provide matching designs for standard Apple apps. These packs typically include instructions for applying the changes through specific third-party launchers or configuration profiles.
Installing a Pack
Search for a reputable icon pack by browsing categories like "Minimal" or "Monochrome" and review the screenshots to ensure the style fits your taste. Once downloaded, open the pack and follow the on-screen prompts to download the accompanying configuration profile. You will need to confirm the installation of this profile in Settings > General > VPN & Device Management to authorize the changes.
Activating the Icons
After the profile is installed, return to the Settings app and navigate to the wallpaper or icon settings section. Select the option to change your icon setup and choose the newly installed pack. Confirm the change, and your home screen will refresh with the new visuals. Remember that you can revert to the default icons at any time by removing the configuration profile.
