Hey guys! Want to jazz up your Instagram a bit? One cool way to do it is by changing the app icon. While Instagram itself doesn't offer a built-in feature to change the icon directly within the app in 2024, there are definitely some neat workarounds you can use. This guide will walk you through how to change your Instagram icon on both Android and iOS devices, so you can customize your phone's home screen to your liking. Let's dive in!

Why Change Your Instagram Icon?

Before we get started, you might be wondering, "Why even bother changing the Instagram icon?" Well, there are a few fun reasons. First off, it’s a great way to personalize your phone and make it stand out. Instead of the same old icon everyone else has, you can choose something that reflects your personality or current mood. Maybe you're feeling retro and want to use one of the classic Instagram icons from the past. Or perhaps you want to match your icon to a specific theme or aesthetic you’re rocking on your home screen. Plus, it’s just a fun little project that can add some visual interest to your device. It's also a great conversation starter when friends notice your unique icon! It's all about making your phone truly yours, and changing the Instagram icon is a simple yet effective way to do just that. Don't underestimate the power of a personalized touch; it can make using your phone a little more enjoyable every day.

Changing the Instagram Icon on Android

Okay, Android users, this section is for you! Changing the Instagram icon on Android is generally pretty straightforward, thanks to the flexibility of the Android operating system. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Using Custom Launchers

Custom launchers are your best friend when it comes to icon customization on Android. These launchers essentially replace your phone's home screen and app drawer, giving you a ton of control over how everything looks and behaves. Some popular custom launchers include Nova Launcher, Action Launcher, and Apex Launcher. These launchers usually have built-in features that let you change individual app icons. To get started, head to the Google Play Store and download a custom launcher of your choice. Once it's installed, set it as your default launcher in your phone's settings.

2. Finding Icon Packs

Once you have your custom launcher set up, the next step is to find an icon pack that you like. Icon packs are collections of custom icons designed to replace the default icons on your phone. There are tons of icon packs available on the Google Play Store, ranging from minimalist designs to vibrant, themed icons. Browse through the options and find one that suits your style. Some icon packs are free, while others may cost a few bucks. Once you've found an icon pack you like, download and install it.

3. Applying the Icon Pack and Changing the Instagram Icon

Now for the fun part! Open your custom launcher's settings. The exact steps may vary depending on the launcher you're using, but generally, you'll want to look for a section called "Appearance," "Icon Themes," or something similar. In these settings, you should be able to select the icon pack you downloaded. Once you've applied the icon pack, most launchers will automatically change all your app icons to match the new style. If you only want to change the Instagram icon, you can usually do this manually. Long-press on the Instagram icon on your home screen or in your app drawer. A menu should pop up, giving you the option to edit the icon. From there, you can choose a new icon from the icon pack you installed or even use a custom image from your gallery. This is where you can really get creative and make your Instagram icon truly unique.

4. Using Apps for Icon Changes

If you don't want to use a custom launcher, there are also apps specifically designed for changing app icons. These apps often work by creating a shortcut with a custom icon that links to the original app. Some popular options include X Icon Changer and Awesome Icons. To use these apps, simply download and install one from the Google Play Store. Open the app and find Instagram in the list of apps. Tap on it, and you'll be given the option to choose a new icon from a variety of sources, including icon packs and your own images. Once you've selected a new icon, the app will create a shortcut on your home screen with the new icon. Remember that this is just a shortcut, so you'll still need to keep the original Instagram app installed. This method is a bit simpler than using a custom launcher, but it does mean you'll have two Instagram icons on your phone – the original and the shortcut.

Changing the Instagram Icon on iOS

Alright, iOS users, it's your turn! Changing the Instagram icon on iOS requires a slightly different approach compared to Android, mainly because iOS is a bit more restrictive when it comes to customization. However, with the Shortcuts app, you can still achieve a customized look for your Instagram icon. Here’s how:

1. Using the Shortcuts App

The Shortcuts app is your key to changing the Instagram icon on iOS. This app, which comes pre-installed on most iPhones, allows you to create custom shortcuts that can perform various actions, including opening apps with custom icons. If you don't have the Shortcuts app, you can download it for free from the App Store. This is a powerful tool that opens up a lot of customization options on iOS, so it's worth exploring even beyond just changing app icons.

2. Finding or Creating a New Icon Image

Before you create your shortcut, you'll need a new icon image for Instagram. You can find icon images online by searching for things like "custom Instagram icons" or "aesthetic app icons." There are tons of websites and apps that offer free icon images in various styles. Alternatively, you can create your own icon using a photo editing app or graphic design tool. Just make sure the image is a square and in a format that iOS supports, like PNG or JPEG. Save the icon image to your Photos app.

3. Creating the Shortcut

Now, open the Shortcuts app and tap the "+" button to create a new shortcut. Tap "Add Action" and search for "Open App." Select the "Open App" action. Tap the word "App" in the action and choose Instagram from the list of apps. Next, tap the three dots in the upper-right corner of the screen to open the shortcut settings. Give your shortcut a name, like "Instagram Custom," and tap "Add to Home Screen." On the next screen, you'll see the option to change the icon for the shortcut. Tap the icon and choose "Choose Photo." Select the icon image you saved earlier from your Photos app. Adjust the image if necessary and tap "Choose." Finally, tap "Add" to add the shortcut to your home screen. You've now created a custom Instagram icon that will open the Instagram app when tapped.

4. Hiding the Original Instagram App Icon (Optional)

To complete the effect, you might want to hide the original Instagram app icon so that only your custom icon is visible on your home screen. To do this, long-press on the original Instagram icon until the menu appears. Tap "Remove App" and then select "Remove from Home Screen." This will remove the icon from your home screen but will still keep the app installed on your phone. You can still access the original app from your App Library by swiping left on your home screen until you reach the App Library and searching for Instagram. This step is optional, but it helps to create a cleaner and more customized look for your home screen.

Tips and Tricks for Customizing Your Instagram Icon

Okay, now that you know how to change your Instagram icon, here are some extra tips and tricks to help you make the most of it:

• Use High-Quality Images: When choosing or creating custom icons, make sure to use high-resolution images. This will ensure that your icons look sharp and clear on your home screen. Blurry or pixelated icons can detract from the overall look, so it's worth taking the time to find or create high-quality images.
• Match Your Icon to Your Theme: Consider matching your Instagram icon to the overall theme of your home screen. If you have a minimalist theme, choose a simple and understated icon. If you have a more colorful theme, go for a vibrant and eye-catching icon. Creating a cohesive look across your home screen can make your phone feel more organized and visually appealing.
• Experiment with Different Styles: Don't be afraid to experiment with different icon styles. Try out different icon packs, create your own icons, or mix and match icons from different sources. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and see what you can come up with. Customization is all about expressing your personality, so don't be afraid to get creative.
• Update Your Icons Regularly: To keep your phone feeling fresh and new, consider updating your icons regularly. Change them with the seasons, holidays, or whenever you feel like it. This is a simple way to add some variety to your phone and keep things interesting.
• Backup Your Customizations: If you're using a custom launcher on Android, make sure to back up your customizations. This will ensure that you don't lose your custom icons and settings if you ever need to reset your phone or switch to a new device. Most custom launchers have a built-in backup feature, so it's easy to create a backup of your settings.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Changing your Instagram icon in 2024 is totally doable, even though Instagram doesn't offer a direct option. Whether you're on Android or iOS, there are ways to customize your home screen and make your Instagram icon truly your own. For Android users, custom launchers and icon packs are your best bet. For iOS users, the Shortcuts app is the way to go. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform your phone's home screen into a personalized masterpiece. So go ahead, give it a try, and have fun customizing your Instagram icon! It's a small change that can make a big difference in how you feel about your phone.