How to Change the Color of Your Apps on Android

Why Change the Color of Your Apps on Android

When it comes to personalizing your Android device, changing the color of your apps can make a significant impact on its overall appearance. It allows you to express your unique style and taste, making your device truly yours. Here are some reasons why changing the color of your apps on Android can be beneficial:

Customization: By changing the color of your apps, you can create a personalized look and feel that reflects your personality and preferences. It adds a touch of individuality to your device, making it stand out from the crowd.
Visual Appeal: Certain color combinations can enhance the visual appeal of your apps. Vibrant and contrasting colors can make your apps more visually engaging and attract attention. You can choose colors that match your mood or create a cohesive theme throughout your device.
Organization: Color-coding your apps can help you stay organized and easily locate them on your device. By assigning specific colors to different categories of apps, such as productivity, entertainment, or communication, you can quickly navigate through your app collection.
Accessibility: Changing the color of your apps can also improve accessibility for individuals with visual impairments. By using high contrast colors or larger, easily distinguishable icons, you can ensure that your apps are more inclusive and accessible to a wider range of users.
Rejuvenation: If you’ve been using the same interface for a while, changing the color of your apps can breathe new life into your device. It provides a refreshing change and can make your device feel brand new again.

These are just a few reasons why changing the color of your apps on Android is a popular and beneficial customization option. Whether you want to stand out from the crowd, stay organized, improve accessibility, or simply add a personal touch, changing the color of your apps can transform the look and feel of your Android device.

Step 1: Check for Theme Support

The first step in changing the color of your apps on Android is to check if your device supports themes. Some Android devices come with built-in theme options, while others may require the installation of a third-party launcher app. Here’s how to check for theme support:

Device Settings: Start by exploring your device’s settings menu. Look for options such as “Themes,” “Display,” or “Customization.” If you find a dedicated theme section, you’re in luck!
Manufacturer’s Website: Visit the website of your device’s manufacturer and search for information about themes or customization options. The manufacturer may provide specific instructions or themes that you can download and apply to your device.
Play Store: Open the Google Play Store and search for “themes” or “customization.” You may find third-party apps developed specifically for changing the color of your apps. Read user reviews and check the app’s ratings before downloading.

If your device does not have native theme support or you are unable to find suitable themes in the Play Store, don’t worry. There are other methods for changing the color of your apps that we will explore in the following steps.

Remember, not all Android devices offer the same level of customization options. The availability of themes may vary depending on your device model, operating system version, and manufacturer. If you have an older or less popular device, you may have limited theme support.

Step 2: Install a Launcher App

If your Android device does not have built-in theme support, you can still change the color of your apps by installing a launcher app. A launcher app is a home screen replacement that allows you to customize various aspects of your device’s interface, including the color and appearance of your apps. Here’s how to install a launcher app:

Research: Start by researching and comparing different launcher apps available in the Google Play Store. Look for apps that offer extensive customization options, themes, and icon packs. Read user reviews and check the ratings to gauge the app’s reliability and performance.
Download and Install: Once you have selected a launcher app, download and install it from the Google Play Store. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Set as Default: After installing the launcher app, you will be prompted to set it as the default home screen. Select the newly installed launcher app and tap on “Always” to make it your device’s default launcher.
Launch App Settings: Open the launcher app’s settings menu. Look for options related to themes, appearance, or app customization.
Select a Theme: Depending on the launcher app, you may have access to a variety of pre-installed themes. Browse through the available themes and select one that matches your preferences. Some launcher apps may even allow you to create custom themes or import third-party themes.
Apply the Theme: Once you have chosen a theme, apply it to your device. The launcher app will automatically change the color and appearance of your apps according to the selected theme.
Customize Further: If the selected theme does not fully meet your preferences, delve deeper into the launcher app’s settings to customize individual app icons, fonts, and additional visual elements.

By installing a launcher app and customizing its settings, you can change the color of your apps and achieve a more personalized and visually appealing Android interface.

Step 3: Customize the App Icons

Once you have changed the color of your apps using a launcher app, you can take it a step further by customizing the app icons. Custom app icons can add a unique touch to your device’s interface and enhance the overall aesthetic. Here’s how to customize the app icons:

Icon Packs: Search for icon packs in the Google Play Store. Icon packs are collections of custom-designed app icons that can be applied to your installed apps. Look for packs that match your preferred style or theme.
Download and Install: Once you have found an icon pack that you like, download and install it on your device. Some launcher apps may have built-in support for icon packs, while others may require a separate app to apply them.
Apply Icon Pack: Launch your launcher app’s settings menu and navigate to the icon pack section. Select the downloaded icon pack and apply it to your device. The app icons of your installed apps will be replaced with the icons from the chosen pack.
Individual App Customization: If you prefer to have a mix of different app icons, you can manually customize individual apps. Long-press on the app icon you want to customize, and a menu will appear. From there, select “Edit” or “Change Icon” to choose a custom icon from your device or gallery.
Create Your Own Icons: For a truly unique personal touch, you can create your own app icons. There are several apps available in the Google Play Store that allow you to design and create custom icons using various shapes, colors, and images. Once created, you can apply these icons to your apps using the same customization options mentioned earlier.

Customizing app icons gives you the freedom to create a cohesive and visually appealing interface by selecting icon packs or designing your own icons. It adds another layer of personalization to your Android device and enhances the overall customized look.

Step 4: Customize the App Drawer

After changing the color of your apps and customizing the app icons, you can further customize the app drawer to enhance the overall look and feel of your Android device. The app drawer is the screen that displays all of your installed apps. Here’s how to customize the app drawer:

App Drawer Layout: Open your launcher app’s settings menu and look for options related to the app drawer layout. You may be able to choose between grid or list views, adjust the number of apps displayed per page, or change the sorting order of the apps.
App Drawer Background: Some launcher apps allow you to customize the background of the app drawer. You can choose a solid color, a gradient, or even use a custom image as the background. Experiment with different options to find a background that complements your overall theme.
Folder Organization: If your app drawer allows you to create folders, organize your apps into folders based on categories or usage. This can make it easier to find and access specific apps quickly.
Hide Apps: Most launcher apps offer the option to hide specific apps from the app drawer. If there are certain apps that you rarely use or want to keep out of sight, hide them to declutter your app drawer.
Search Functionality: Customize the search functionality of your app drawer, if available. Some launcher apps offer advanced search options that allow you to search for apps based on name, category, or even voice commands.
Gesture Controls: Explore your launcher app’s settings to see if there are any gesture controls specifically for the app drawer. These gestures can include swiping, pinching, or double-tapping to open and close the app drawer, providing a more intuitive and personalized user experience.

Customizing the app drawer allows you to optimize the way you access and interact with your apps. By adjusting the layout, background, organization, and search functionality, you can create an app drawer that is visually appealing and tailored to your specific needs.

Step 5: Use an App Icon Pack

If you want to easily change the appearance of your app icons without the need for extensive customization, using an app icon pack is a great option. App icon packs provide a collection of pre-designed icons that can be applied to your installed apps. Here’s how to use an app icon pack:

Find an App Icon Pack: Search for app icon packs in the Google Play Store. There are numerous options available, ranging from minimalistic designs to vibrant and colorful packs. Look for packs that align with your preferred style or theme.
Download and Install: Once you have found an app icon pack that catches your eye, download and install it on your device. Make sure to read the app’s description and check user reviews for an indication of its quality and compatibility with your launcher app.
Apply the App Icon Pack: Open your launcher app’s settings menu and locate the option to apply the app icon pack. Depending on your launcher app, you may find this option under “Themes,” “Icons,” or “Appearance.” Select the downloaded app icon pack from the available options.
Confirm the Change: After selecting the app icon pack, your launcher app will automatically apply the new icons to your installed apps. Give it a few moments to complete the icon change process.
Review and Make Adjustments: Once the app icon pack has been applied, review your app icons to ensure that they match your desired aesthetic. Some launcher apps may offer additional customization options, such as selecting individual icons or modifying specific app icons manually. Explore these options to fine-tune the appearance of your app icons.

Using an app icon pack is a quick and easy way to give your device a fresh look without undergoing extensive customization. With countless packs available in the Google Play Store, you can easily find an icon pack that resonates with your personal style and theme preferences.

Step 6: Use a Wallpaper App

Changing the wallpaper on your Android device can significantly impact its visual appeal and create a cohesive theme with your customized app icons. Wallpaper apps provide a vast collection of high-quality images and designs to choose from. Here’s how to use a wallpaper app to transform the look of your device:

Explore Wallpaper Apps: Search for wallpaper apps in the Google Play Store. There are various options available that offer a wide range of wallpapers, including nature, abstract, minimalistic, and more. Take your time to find a wallpaper app that aligns with your personal preferences.
Download and Install: Once you have identified a wallpaper app that catches your interest, download and install it on your device. Pay attention to user ratings and reviews to ensure that you are downloading a reputable and reliable app.
Choose a Wallpaper: Open the wallpaper app and browse through the available wallpapers. Many apps provide categories and filtering options to help you navigate through the vast collection more efficiently. Select a wallpaper that complements your desired theme or aesthetic.
Apply the Wallpaper: After choosing your desired wallpaper, select the “Set as Wallpaper” or similar option within the app. The wallpaper app will guide you through the process of setting the image as your device’s wallpaper.
Experiment with Wallpapers: Don’t be afraid to explore different wallpapers and experiment with various styles, colors, and patterns. Changing your device’s wallpaper periodically can give your Android interface a fresh and updated look.
Consider Live Wallpapers: Some wallpaper apps offer live wallpapers that feature animated or interactive elements. These dynamic wallpapers can add an extra layer of visual interest and uniqueness to your device’s home screen.

Using a wallpaper app allows you to easily change the background of your Android device and achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look. Combined with customized app icons and themes, a well-chosen wallpaper can tie everything together and create a personalized and captivating interface.

Step 7: Customize Your Device’s Theme

Customizing your device’s theme is a great way to change the overall look and feel of your Android interface. This step goes beyond just customizing app icons or wallpapers and allows you to modify system-wide elements such as colors, fonts, and even system animations. Here’s how to customize your device’s theme:

Device Settings: Start by exploring your device’s settings menu and look for options related to themes or customization. This can usually be found under “Display,” “Theme,” or “Customization.”
Select a Built-in Theme: Some Android devices come with a variety of built-in themes available for selection. Browse through the available themes and select the one that aligns with your desired style or mood.
Theme Store: Some Android devices offer a theme store where you can download additional themes. These themes often provide more extensive customization options, including different styles, fonts, and system sounds.
Customize Colors: If your device allows you to customize colors, explore the options to modify the system color palette. You can select a primary color, accent color, or even create a custom color scheme to personalize the look of your device.
Font Styles and Sizes: Adjusting the font style and size can significantly impact the overall appearance of your device. Look for font customization options and choose a font style and size that suits your preferences.
System Animations: Some Android devices allow you to customize system animations, such as transition animations or scrolling effects. Experiment with different animations to enhance the visual experience and create a unique feel.
Apply and Save Changes: After customizing your device’s theme elements, apply the changes and save them. Your device will now reflect the personalized theme that you have created.
Third-Party Customization Apps: If your device does not provide extensive theme customization options, consider using third-party customization apps specifically designed to modify system-wide themes. These apps offer additional flexibility and a broader range of customization options.

Customizing your device’s theme allows you to create a unique and personalized Android interface. By adjusting colors, fonts, and system animations, you can transform your device to match your style and preferences.

Step 8: Enable Developer Options

Enabling Developer Options on your Android device unlocks a hidden set of advanced settings and customization options. Although primarily intended for developers, enabling Developer Options can be useful for users who want to have more control over their device’s performance, animation settings, and other system tweaks. Here’s how to enable Developer Options:

Open Settings: Go to the “Settings” app on your Android device. The location of the settings may vary depending on the manufacturer and the Android version, but you can usually find it in the app drawer or the quick settings panel.
About Phone/About Device: Scroll down until you find the “About Phone” or “About Device” option and tap on it. It is typically located at the bottom of the settings screen.
Build Number: In the “About Phone” or “About Device” section, look for the “Build Number” entry. Tap on it seven times consecutively. After a few taps, you will see a message indicating that you are now a developer.
Developer Options: Go back to the main settings screen and scroll down to find the newly enabled “Developer Options” entry.
Enable Developer Options: Tap on “Developer Options” and toggle the switch at the top of the screen to enable it. You may be required to enter your device’s PIN or pattern lock for security purposes.
Explore the Settings: Once Developer Options is enabled, you can explore the various options and settings available. Some key settings include USB debugging, animation scale, background process limits, and more.
Make Changes: Depending on your needs, you can adjust the settings in Developer Options to customize your device’s performance, animation speed, and other system aspects. Take caution while making changes, as some settings may affect the stability or functionality of your device.

Enabling Developer Options provides you with additional control and customization options for your Android device. However, it is essential to note that these settings are intended for experienced users who understand the implications of their adjustments. Proceed with caution and make changes cautiously.

Step 9: Install a Custom ROM

For the most extensive customization options and complete control over your Android device, you can consider installing a custom ROM. A custom ROM replaces the stock operating system on your device with a modified version, allowing you to customize various aspects of the interface, performance, and features. Here’s how to install a custom ROM:

Research and Find a Custom ROM: Search online forums, websites, and communities dedicated to Android customization to find a custom ROM that is compatible with your device. Make sure to choose a reputable and trustworthy ROM that suits your preferences.
Backup Your Data: Before installing a custom ROM, it is crucial to back up your device’s data. This ensures that you can restore your data in case anything goes wrong during the installation process.
Unlock Bootloader: Many custom ROMs require you to unlock the bootloader of your device. This process may vary depending on your device model and manufacturer. Research the specific instructions for your device to unlock the bootloader.
Installation Process: Once you have unlocked the bootloader, you can proceed with the installation of the custom ROM. The exact installation process depends on the custom ROM you are installing, and it usually involves booting your device into a custom recovery mode and flashing the custom ROM file from an external storage medium such as an SD card or via a computer.
Wipe Data/Factory Reset: As part of the installation process, it is recommended to perform a “wipe data” or “factory reset” in the custom recovery mode. This step clears all existing data and ensures a clean installation of the custom ROM.
Follow Instructions: Follow the installation instructions provided by the custom ROM developer carefully. Different custom ROMs may require specific steps or additional installations such as flashing custom kernels, Google Apps (GApps), or additional tweaks.
Reboot and Enjoy: After successfully installing the custom ROM, reboot your device. It may take a while for the initial boot process to complete. Once your device is up and running, you can explore the new features and customization options offered by the custom ROM.

Installing a custom ROM provides a deeper level of customization and control over your Android device. However, it is essential to note that the process can void your device’s warranty and pose certain risks if not done correctly. Ensure that you thoroughly research and understand the installation process and any potential implications before proceeding.

Step 10: Use a Theme Builder App

If you have a creative vision for your Android device’s theme and want to design it from scratch, you can use a theme builder app. A theme builder app allows you to customize various elements of your device’s interface, including icons, wallpapers, fonts, and more. Here’s how to use a theme builder app:

Research and Choose a Theme Builder App: Explore the Google Play Store to find theme builder apps that offer extensive customization options. Look for apps with positive user reviews and a user-friendly interface.
Download and Install: After choosing a theme builder app, download and install it on your device. Make sure that the app is compatible with your device model and operating system version.
Create a New Theme: Open the theme builder app and start a new theme project. You will be presented with various customization options and tools to personalize your device’s interface.
Customize Icons: Use the theme builder app to design or import custom icons for your apps. You can modify the shape, color, style, and size of the icons to fit your desired theme.
Design Wallpapers: Use the app’s tools to create unique and personalized wallpapers. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors, and designs or import your own images.
Adjust Fonts and Typography: Customize the fonts and typography of your device. Choose from a selection of pre-installed fonts or import your own font files.
Apply the Theme: Once you are satisfied with your customizations, save your theme and apply it to your device. The theme builder app will guide you through the process of applying your custom-created theme.
Refine and Update: If you want to make further changes to your theme, you can revisit the theme builder app and refine your design. You can update the icons, wallpapers, fonts, and other elements as desired.

Using a theme builder app provides extensive customization options and allows you to unleash your creativity to design a unique and personalized theme for your Android device. It offers a seamless and intuitive way to transform your device’s interface according to your preferences.