This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
With iOS 18, Apple introduced a new feature that allows you to customize the look of your app icons. You now have the option to choose between light, dark, or tinted mode. You may have noticed that not all icons change color in dark mode. Below you will find out why this is the case and what you can do to still customize your home screen.
With the update to iOS 18, Apple has created the possibility to customize the appearance of your home screen. The option to switch app icons between a light, dark or tinted mode is particularly interesting. However, this customization does not always run smoothly. Many users find that some icons do not change their color in dark mode. In this article, you will find out why this is the case and what you can do to still get a uniform design.
Why don't all app icons change color in dark mode?
After enabling dark mode for your app icons, some icons will darken as expected while others will keep their original color. This is due to two main factors:
- App developers need to adapt their icons: In order for an icon to display correctly in dark mode, the developer of the app in question needs to provide a suitable icon. This doesn't always happen immediately, as not all developers update their apps at the same time. Over time, however, you'll see more and more icons supporting dark mode as apps are updated.
- iOS automatically adjusts: If an app doesn't provide a specific dark mode icon, iOS will try to adjust the icon automatically. The system analyzes the icon and tries to adjust the colors. This usually works well, but with some icons, such as Reddit, the result may not be quite right. In such cases, the icon often just stays darker but without any major changes to the color palette.
How to enable dark mode for icons
If you want to use dark mode for app icons on your iPhone, you can customize the icons relatively easily. Here's how:
- Press and hold the home screen of your iPhone.
- Tap “Edit” in the top left.
- Select Customize and then Dark to enable dark mode for your icons.
If you want the icons to automatically dim only at night, you can select “Automatic” instead.
What to do if symbols don't change?
If you notice that some icons aren't switching to dark mode, your only option right now is to wait for the developer of the app to provide an update. Unfortunately, there's no way to change the icons manually unless the app already offers custom icon options. If you want a more consistent look, tinted mode might be a good alternative. This mode uses an accent color on a dark background, creating a more consistent design across the entire home screen.
iOS 18: Customize icons and personalize the home screen
The new customization options in iOS 18 are a cool way to make your home screen more personal. While not all app icons will appear in dark mode right away, this will improve over time as more developers update their apps. If you want a more consistent design, you can use tinted mode, which can be applied to more icons. Looking for new accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront – there you will find a variety of products from leading providers, including for HomeKit and more! (Image: Apple)
- You should know these 5 new iPhone 16 features
- iOS 18: Create and manage pages in the Control Center
- iOS 18 New Features: Manage Reminders Directly in the Calendar
- iOS 18: New features for less dizziness in the car
