Coloring apps is becoming an increasingly popular way for users to customize and personalize their mobile device experiences. With just a few tweaks and tricks, you can change the look of your favorite apps to match your style. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top techniques for modifying app colors on both iOS and Android platforms.
Why Would You Want to Change App Colors?
Here are some of the top reasons you may want to modify your app colors:
- Make apps easier to see – Changing colors can increase contrast and improve visibility.
- Enhance readability – Adjusting colors helps reduce eye strain.
- Complement your wallpaper – Match your app scheme to your wallpaper for a cohesive look.
- Suit your preferences – Custom colors let you theme apps to your taste.
- Identify apps quickly – Unique colors help you locate apps faster.
- Improve accessibility – Modified colors assist users with visual impairments.
- Cater to dark mode – Darker color schemes are better for low light environments.
- Express yourself – Custom colors let you showcase your personality.
Whether you want to reduce eye strain, color coordinate, or just show off your style, changing app colors can be a fun way to tailor your mobile experience.
Customizing Colors on iOS
Thanks to iOS themes and tinting, you have a few options for modifying app colors on iPhone and iPad devices:
Use Color Themes
iOS includes several system color themes that instantly change the look of your device. To use them:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size.
- Tap on Color Filters.
- Select a filter such as grayscale, inverted, or a color tint.
This applies a universal color mask to your screen. While not exactly custom, it’s a quick way to alter all your app hues.
Manually Tint Apps
For more control, you can manually tint apps to specific colors:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size.
- Tap on Color Filters and select Grayscale or Custom.
- Tap the switch next to Tinting to enable it.
- Drag the intensity slider to your desired level of tinting.
- Tap the color wheel to select a custom tint color.
This will tint the screen to your chosen shade. You can combine it with grayscale for even more customization.
Use Smart Invert Colors
Smart Invert inverts the colors on your display while keeping images, media, and some apps uninverted. To use it:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility.
- Select Smart Invert.
This inverts most system colors and defaults apps to darker shades. Note that some colors may look off.
Customizing Colors on Android
The level of customization will vary on Android depending on your device model and OS version. But here are some top techniques:
Apply a Theme
One of the easiest ways to change Android app colors is to apply a pre-made theme:
- Go to Settings > Display.
- Select Advanced.
- Tap on Device Theme.
- Choose from preset color themes.
Some devices also let you install custom themes from the Google Play store for more options.
Use Color Correction
Many Android devices feature color correction settings to tint the screen:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility.
- Select Color Correction.
- Adjust the color temperature and tint to your preferred hue.
This will apply a universal color overlay based on your settings. You can create custom color profiles.
Enable Black and White Mode
Switching your device to black and white mode is an easy way to convert all colors to shades of gray:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Grayscale.
- Toggle the Grayscale switch on.
This grays out the screens of all apps for a clean, minimalist look.
Use App Themes
Some Android apps like Twitter and Chrome allow installing custom color themes or dark mode. Take advantage of in-app theming for an app-specific look.
Customization Considerations
Here are some tips to keep in mind when modifying your app colors:
- Test accessibility – Make sure new colors don’t negatively impact visibility.
- Check compatibility – Theming doesn’t work with all apps.
- Watch for eye strain – Don’t overdo high contrast or bright hues.
- Mind battery life – Vibrant colors may drain battery faster.
- Consider workflows – High contrast helps focus while cool hues boost creativity.
With a little prudent testing, you can find app color schemes that please your eye, suit your needs, and fit your style.
Top Apps for Customizing Colors
Beyond system settings, third-party apps provide more advanced color customization options. Here are some top picks:
| App | Platform | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Chroma Doze | Android | Applies custom color tints with unique effects like pixelation. |
| Twilight | Android | Tints your screen at night to reduce eye strain. |
| Flux | iOS | Changes screen hue based on time of day to reduce eyestrain. |
| Recolor | iOS | Lets you recolor images and apps with custom color profiles. |
| Material Islands | Android | Themer for Google Material Design with color schemes for apps. |
For advanced theming and color tweaking abilities, these dedicated apps are worth checking out.
Conclusion
With iOS color filters, Android themes, smart invert, and color correction settings, you have several built-in options for modifying the look of your apps. Third party tools provide even more advanced customization abilities. Set the right mood with cool hues or boost focus with high contrast. Just be sure to test for accessibility and eyestrain. A personalized, colorful mobile device experience awaits!