The visual aspect of the smartphone interface is just as important as the hardware, because it’s the screen we interact with most of the time. The standard set of icons in the MIUI shells and the new HyperOS looks neat, but over time it can get boring or simply not fit into the chosen desktop color scheme. Fortunately, the Xiaomi ecosystem provides users with ample opportunities for customization, allowing you to turn a standard “workhorse” into a unique device that reflects the personal style of the owner.
The process of replacing graphical navigation elements does not require superuser rights or deep programming knowledge. Icon changes can be done either by the system’s regular means through the built-in Themes app or by using third-party software that gives even more freedom of action. In this article, we will discuss in detail all available methods, from the simplest to the most advanced, so you can choose the best option for your model.
It’s worth noting that the design approach can vary depending on the version of the Android operating system and the shell modification. On older devices, algorithms may work differently than on the latest flagships with HyperOS. However, the basic principles remain unchanged: the system allows you to replace graphic resources either completely (through themes) or selectively (through editors).
Use of the built-in Themes application
The most reliable and secure way to transform the interface is to use the regular Theme app, which is pre-installed on all smartphones of the brand, which ensures that all icons are properly scaled and the system remains stable.
You'll need to find the profile icon, which is usually in the lower right corner or in the "My Profile" menu, and this is where all the downloaded components are stored, including fonts, wallpaper and, of course, icon sets, and clicking on the corresponding section, you'll see a list of available packages that have already been downloaded or purchased before.
- 🎨 Open the Topics app and go to the Profile section».
- 📂 Select the "Signs" item in the list of available categories.
- 👆 Click on the set you like and select "Apply».
- ✅ Confirm the action so that the changes take effect instantly.
It's important to understand that applying a new set of icons through this menu often replaces graphics for all supported apps at once. If you want to change the design for just one particular program, this method may seem redundant, but it's ideal for a global style change. In addition, the theme store has thousands of free options created by both official designers and the community.
⚠️ Note: Some themes may contain ads or require an internet connection to verify a license each time you run, so choose high-rated packages that are tested.
Selective replacement of icons through the editor
If you don't want to change the global theme and you want to replace the icon of just one particular application, like a messenger or a bank, the built-in editor will come to the rescue. This feature is especially useful when the main design of the system suits you, but one element is out of the picture. Themes application is also used to access this tool.
From the Profile menu, select the Signs section, and then find the Create button or pencil icon, which is usually located at the top right of the screen, and a list of all the programs installed on the device will open. Once you select the desired application, the system will prompt you to choose a new icon from the already downloaded sets or image gallery.
☑️ Selective substitution algorithm
The editor's functionality allows you to use not only ready-made vector images, but also any images from your gallery, which opens up endless possibilities for creativity: you can put a picture of a loved one or the logo of a favorite team in the place of the phone icon, and after selecting an image, the system will automatically trim it to the desired format, although some versions of the shell have manual border adjustments.
Special attention should be paid to graphic caching. After manually replacing the icon, the new image may not appear instantly in the application menu, in which case it is recommended to restart the device or clear the launcher cache through the system settings. This is a common feature of MIUI, which helps save CPU resources, but sometimes requires manual intervention during customization.
Why doesn't the icon change?
Use of third-party launchers
For users who don’t have the standard shell, there are third-party launchers, full-fledged replacements for the standard desktop that completely change the logic of how you interact with your smartphone, and the most popular solutions are Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher and Smart Launcher, which are available on the Google Play store.
Installing a third-party launcher gives you complete control over the desktop grid, transition animations and, of course, icons. In the settings of such a launcher, there is usually a separate section dedicated to the appearance, where you can use entire icon packs downloaded separately, which allows you to combine one launcher with dozens of different graphic styles.
| The name of the launcher | Difficulty setting up | Support for topics | Impact on the battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nova Launcher | Tall. | Huge. | Low. |
| Microsoft Launcher | Medium | Big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big | Average. |
| Smart Launcher 6 | Low. | Medium | Low. |
| Lawnchair | Medium | Big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big | Low. |
When using a third-party launcher, resource consumption should be considered. Heavy shells with many widgets and live animations can drain the battery faster, especially on budget models of smartphones. However, for older devices, there are lightweight versions of launchers that, on the contrary, can speed up the system by eliminating the heavy visual effects of the standard shell.
⚠️ Warning: After installing a third-party launcher, the system may periodically offer to return the standard interface.This is normal Android protection, just select Always or Default for the new launcher.
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Third-party launchers give maximum freedom, but can consume more power and take time to initially set up for themselves.
Application of icon packages from Google Play
The Google Play app store is full of customized icon packages that are not full-fledged themes, but only contain graphics files. These packages weigh a little and are designed to work in conjunction with the launchers or assistant apps that support them. Popular formats are Material You, iOS, Minimal and others.
To use such a package on Xiaomi, you often need a third-party launcher who can recognize these sets. After installing the package and the launcher (for example, Nova), just go to the launcher settings, select the icon style option and activate the downloaded package.
- 📥 Download your favorite Icon Pack from Google Play.
- 📲 Install a compatible launcher if not already installed.
- ⚙️ In the launcher settings, find the “Exterior” or “Icon Style” section».
- 🖌️ Select the package from the list and apply it.
There are also special assistant apps like X Icon Changer that allow icon packs to be applied even on Xiaomi’s standard louncere without replacing it. They create shortcuts on top of the original apps. While this is not a perfect solution (shortcuts can behave like separate apps), it allows you to achieve the desired visual effect without deep restructuring the system.
When searching for packages, pay attention to the number of downloads and the date of the last update. Old packages may not contain icons for new versions of popular apps such as Instagram or Telegram, which will cause empty spaces or standard stubs on the desktop.
Customize personalized icons in HyperOS
With the release of the new HyperOS shell, which replaces MIUI, Xiaomi has introduced new personalization capabilities based on Google’s material design, which has learned to automatically generate color schemes and icon shapes by adjusting to the selected wallpaper, making the interface more harmonious without having to search for third-party themes.
The new system has an expanded Wallpaper and Personalization section, where users can not only change wallpaper, but also choose the shape of icons (circle, square, rounded square) and their size, a feature that is especially relevant for those who prefer a pure Android experience or minimalist style.
The AI algorithms in HyperOS analyze the dominant colors on your desktop and lock screen wallpaper, suggesting appropriate shades for interface elements.This creates a live smartphone effect that changes with your mood. However, some features may require a Mi Account account and a network connection to work.
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For the best effect in HyperOS, use abstract wallpaper with smooth gradients - the system will be able to more accurately choose the color palette for icons and widgets.
It’s worth noting that switching from MIUI to HyperOS can change the location of some theme settings. If you’ve recently updated and can’t find the menus you’re familiar with, search for the settings by typing in “Themes” or “Personalization” to save time and help you quickly adapt to the new interface.
Possible problems and solutions
Customization rarely goes smoothly, and users may face a number of common problems, most often associated with graphics caching or application version conflicts, and understanding the causes of these failures will help quickly return the smartphone to a workable and beautiful look.
One common problem is the appearance of “broken” icons that appear as a white square or a standard Android logo.This happens when the theme or icon pack does not contain graphics for a specific application update, whether it is by replacing the icon manually through the editor or updating the theme package itself.
- 🔄 Reset the launcher settings through the app menu.
- 🗑️ Remove the problem topic and apply the standard.
- 📲 Check for updates for the “Themes” app».
- 📸 Take a screenshot and clear the gallery cache if the icons aren't updated.
Another is when you change the theme, you lose your app signatures or you get extra space, and that's done in the desktop grid settings, you squeeze the blank space on the screen, you select Settings, and you experiment with the font size and indentations, and in some cases, you can change the pixel density (DPI) in the Developer Menu, but it requires caution.
⚠️ Note: Do not install themes from unknown sources (not from the official TEM store), as they may contain malicious code or disrupt the stability of the system.