Android's upcoming version 16 features automated themed app icons, with no option for applications to bypass this change.
In a significant move towards enhancing the user experience, Google has rolled out the Android 16 QPR2 update, which brings two major UI changes: forced dark mode and auto-themed app icons.
The new Material 3 Expressive design, which debuted earlier with the Android 16 QPR1 update, has been a step towards a more cohesive and visually appealing Android interface. However, prior to Android 16 QPR2, some app icons supported the Material You theming while others looked out of place due to a lack of compatibility with auto-themed app icons. This issue is now addressed with the introduction of universal auto-themed app icons in Android 16 QPR2.
Google is also enforcing a rule change that requires all app icons to adopt system theming with a monochrome filter. This rule change, part of the Android 16 QPR2 update, seems necessary for Google to protect itself from potential takedown notices from brands and developers. The new icon theming engine applies a color-filtering algorithm that renders app icons in a monochrome style.
For new developers, this rule change went into effect on September 15, 2025. Existing developers on the Google Play Store will be allowed to modify colours or adjust themes of apps starting October 15, 2025, as per the revised Google Play's Developer Distribution Agreement (DDA) section 5.3.
Android 16 QPR2 also introduces forced dark mode in apps that don't support it natively. This feature aims to help both users and developers avoid potential conflicts, such as issues with modifying a brand's icon.
Interestingly, Apple implemented a similar feature with iOS 18. The Play Store rules will change on October 15, 2025, allowing users to adjust app colours or themes. However, there are no specific publicly available details on the exact date when Google Play Store rule changes regarding app colour or theme modifications will take effect.
The Android 16 QPR2 Beta has been released alongside the Pixel 10 series. This step towards improving icon theming on Android is a significant move towards a more uniform and visually appealing user interface.
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