Modern smartphone users pay great attention not only to the functionality, but also to the aesthetics of their device. The standard blue icon of the social network VKontakte, which we have seen for years, may seem boring or stand out from the overall concept of a designed desktop. Fortunately, the operating system Android provides ample opportunities for customization, allowing you to change the appearance of absolutely any application.
There are several proven ways to change the icon in VK on Android, from using the built-in shell functions to installing specialized launchers. The choice of method depends on your gadget model and firmware version. In this article, we will analyze each option in detail so that you can find the most convenient and safe path to personalization.
Before you start making changes, it is worth noting that replacing a graphic element does not affect the operation of the application itself. Your data, correspondence and settings will remain completely safe. The main thing is to follow the instructions and use reliable sources to download new images.
Using the built-in functions of the smartphone shell
Many modern smartphone manufacturers, such as Xiaomi, Samsung and OnePlus, build into their proprietary shells tools for changing icons without the need to install additional software. This is the simplest and fastest method that does not require obtaining root access or complex configuration.
Usually this option is located in the themes or desktop settings section. You need to hold down an empty space on the screen to bring up the editing menu and select “Icons” or “Themes”. In the catalog that opens, you can often find icon packs that will automatically replace the standard logo VK with a stylized version.
If your system does not have a global theme change, try holding down the VKontakte application icon itself. The context menu that appears may have an Edit button or a pencil. By clicking on it, you can select an image from the gallery or the suggested list. However, this functionality is not available on all devices.
⚠️ Attention: On “pure” Android (versions installed on Google Pixel or Motorola), there is often no built-in function for changing individual icons. In such cases, you will have to resort to third-party solutions described below.
Using third-party launchers for complete customization
The most flexible tool for changing the appearance of the interface is installing an alternative launcher. apps like Nova Launcher, Lawnchair or Microsoft Launcher allow you to edit application shortcuts with incredible detail. This is the best choice for those who want to create a unique desktop design.
After installing the launcher from Google Play you need to make it the default application. Then find the VKontakte icon on your desktop and tap on it while holding your finger down for a second. Select the “Edit” option from the drop-down menu. Here you will see a field with the current image, which you need to click to replace.
The system will prompt you to select the image source. You can take a picture from the gallery, use built-in icon packs, or download new ones from specialized applications. After confirming your selection, the new logo will immediately appear on the screen. It is important to understand that some launchers may require a paid version to access advanced editing features.
For ideal results, download icons in PNG format with transparent background. This will save you from ugly white or black squares around the logo.
Creating shortcuts through editor applications
If you do not want to change the entire launcher, but standard phone tools do not support replacing icons, special utilities will come to the rescue. Applications like Iconify, X Icon Changer or Shortcut Maker create a new shortcut on top of the old one using the image you select.
The principle of operation of such apps is extremely simple. You launch the utility, select the installed application from the list VKontakte and press the image change button. Next, download the picture you like from the device’s memory or the Internet. The app generates a new shortcut that is automatically added to the desktop.
It is worth considering one technical feature: the created shortcut is, in fact, a new link to the application. In some cases, notifications may appear on the old icon if the system does not visually combine them. Also, when you delete the creator application, the shortcuts may disappear, so it is better not to delete the supporting software.
| Application name | Presence of advertising | Widget support | Setting up complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iconify | Yes | Yes | Low |
| Shortcut Maker | Minimum | Yes | Average |
| X Icon Changer | Yes | No | Low |
| Nova Launcher | In the Pro version | Yes | High |
Using widgets instead of standard icons
Another original way diversify your desktop - abandon classic icons in favor of widgets. The VKontakte application provides its own widgets of different sizes, which can be stylized or replaced with graphic elements from third-party sets.
To add a widget, hold down an empty space on the screen and select the “Widgets” section. Find it in the list VK and drag the desired size onto your desktop. Some launchers allow you to change the background color and display style of the widget directly in the settings, which makes it possible to adjust it to the overall theme.
There are also widget packs from third-party developers available in the app store. They often offer a minimalist design, where the social network logo is made in the form of a simple geometric shape or outline. This is a great way to maintain the functionality of quick access, but change the visual style.
☑️ Preparing to change the icon
Where to find high-quality images for icons
The success of customization depends 90% on the quality of the original image. A stretched, low-resolution image will ruin the look of even the most expensive smartphone. It is best to look for graphics in specialized resources, and not in random search engine results.
An excellent source are applications with icon packs, such as Whicons, LineX or Viral. They have hundreds of ready-made styles that are guaranteed to look sharp and professional. You can also visit sites like Flaticon or Icons8, where millions of vector images are available.
When searching manually in Google or Yandex, use filters by file size and type. Enter queries like “VK icon png transparent” or “VKontakte logo vector”. This will allow you to immediately find files with a transparent background that will easily fit on any wallpaper color.
⚠️ Attention: Avoid downloading icons from unverified sources or suspicious sites. The image file should not ask for any permissions or install hidden apps. If a site asks you to install an APK file instead of an image, close it immediately.
How to make an icon yourself in a photo editor?
If you haven’t found a suitable option, you can create it yourself. Take a square template 512x512 pixels, place the VK logo in the center and save it in PNG format. Use applications like PicsArt or Canva for quick processing.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
When changing icons, users may encounter a number of technical nuances. For example, after updating the VKontakte application, the new shortcut may stop working or display the old logo. This happens because the system updates the internal application ID.
Another common problem is notifications getting out of sync. You see a red circle with a number on the old badge, but there is none on the new one. This is usually solved by rebooting the device or resetting the launcher settings. In rare cases, you need to delete the old shortcut and create a new one using the same editor application.
Sometimes, after setting a dark background, icons look faded or lose contrast. In such situations, the color inversion function in the launcher settings or the use of images with a double outline will help. Don’t be afraid to experiment with transparency and shadow settings.
The most common reason for resetting icons is updating the system software or the VKontakte application itself. Be prepared to re-apply customization after major updates.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to change the VKontakte icon?
Yes, it is absolutely safe if you use official applications from Google Play or the built-in phone settings. Replacing the graphical shell does not give access to your personal data, correspondence or passwords. The risk only arises when downloading suspicious APK files from unverified sources.
Will the icon disappear after updating the VK application?
Depends on the method. If you used a launcher (such as Nova), the icon will remain. If you created a shortcut through a third-party application, it may get lost and you will have to create it again. The built-in theme changer on Xiaomi or Samsung smartphones is usually resistant to updates.
Is it possible to return the standard blue icon back?
Of course. To do this, you need to hold down the icon again, select “Edit” and press the reset button to the original image. If a third-party shortcut was used, simply delete it, and the original application will be found in the general menu of all apps.
Why does the new icon have a white background instead of a transparent one?
This means that you used an image in JPG format, which does not support transparency, or the picture was of low quality. Download the file in PNG format with a transparent background and try replacing the icon again.
Does changing the icon affect the operation of notifications?
In 95% of cases, notifications work correctly. Problems can only arise when using cheap shortcut creator applications that do not handle system signals correctly. High-level launchers do not have this drawback.