Dark Mode Elevated: iOS 18 to Allow App Icon Color Customization

Apple first introduced support for dark mode in iOS 13, launched in 2019. Designed for night-time use (although preferences vary), dark mode changes the system and compatible apps from a light to a dark background, reducing eye strain.

With an increasing number of apps and games now supporting dark mode, there remains a gap: the iOS home screen has yet to fully embrace dark mode, particularly with the vibrant colors of various app icons.

Rumors have been circulating that iOS 18 will allow users to adjust the color of app icons, making the transition to dark mode for icons a straightforward process.

According to the latest news from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, iOS 18 will enable users to change app icon colors, linking this functionality directly to the home screen's dark mode.

For this feature to work, app developers will need to redesign their icons to accommodate background color adjustments. There's curiosity about whether in-app advertisements, such as those offering red envelope promotions, will be removed or altered for dark mode, as their colors could look odd against a dark background.

The developer preview of iOS 18 is set to be released at WWDC 2024, which will take place at 1 a.m. (local time) on June 11, 2024. The event will be livestreamed through Apple's official website and the Apple Developer Portal app.

General users will likely be able to switch to the developer preview by joining the Apple Beta Program, possibly without needing to verify developer credentials and install a profile as before.

However, it's important to note that early versions of iOS developer previews often contain numerous issues, including potential incompatibilities leading to app crashes or failures. It's advisable for general users to wait for the public beta version.