The size of shortcuts on the Android desktop can significantly affect the usability of a smartphone. Too large icons take up a lot of space and limit the number of applications displayed, while small icons make navigation difficult, especially on devices with large screens. Fortunately, most manufacturers provide flexible tools for customizing the interface, and third-party launchers expand these capabilities to a professional level.

Many users do not even suspect that the size of icons can be changed without installing additional apps. In standard shells MIUI (Xiaomi/Redmi), One UI (Samsung) or ColorOS (Oppo/Realme) this function is often hidden deep in the personalization menu. Moreover, some proprietary firmware allows you to adjust not only the scale of icons, but also the desktop grid, spacing between elements, and even the shape of icons. If the built-in options are not enough, alternative launchers like Nova Launcher or Apex Launcherwill come to the rescue, where customization reaches a new level.

In this article we will analyze all the available methods - from basic settings to advanced solutions for enthusiasts. You'll learn how to customize your desktop to fit your needs: make icons larger for larger-screen convenience, shrink them to be more compact, or even create a unique style using themes and icon packs. We will also reveal several little-known tricks that work even on budget smartphones.

1. Standard settings: change the size of shortcuts without third-party apps

Most modern Android smartphones allow you to change the scale of icons directly in the system settings. The method depends on the shell version and manufacturer, but the general principle is similar: you need to find the desktop personalization section. Let's consider the process using the example of popular brands.

On devices Samsung with a shell One UI the algorithm is as follows:

  1. Long press on an empty space on the desktop → select Settings screen.
  2. Go to Desktop Grid or Layout (depending on the version).
  3. Move the slider Icon size left (decrease) or right (increase).
  4. Click Applyto save changes.

Owners smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO with a shell MIUI need:

  1. Press an empty space on the screen with your finger → tap on Desktop settings.
  2. Select Application icon size and adjust the slider.
  3. In some versions MIUI an option is also available The size of the text under the icons —this will help adjust the display names.

On Realme, Oppo (ColorOS) and Vivo (Funtouch OS) the path is similar: Long press → Settings → Icon size. In some models, these options may be called differently, for example, Desktop layout or Icon style.

⚠️ Attention: On budget smartphones with lightweight firmware (for example Android Go) may not have the function of changing the size of icons. In this case, only installing a third-party launcher will help.
📊 Which Android shell are you using?
One UI (Samsung)
MIUI (Xiaomi/Redmi)
ColorOS (Oppo/Realme)
Stock Android
Other

2. Customizing the desktop grid: how to increase the number of shortcuts

Changing the size of icons is often associated with customizing the desktop grid. The fewer cells in the grid, the larger the icons will be, and vice versa. This parameter allows you not only to adjust the scale, but also to optimize the placement of applications.

Here is how it works on different shells:

  • 📱 Samsung One UI: Long press → Screen settings → Desktop grid. Options available from 4×5 to 5×6 (depending on the model).
  • 📱 MIUI (Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO): Desktop Settings → Grid. You can choose from 4×5 to 5×6, and in some versions even 6×7.
  • 📱 ColorOS (Oppo/Realme): Settings → Layout → Grid size. Non-standard options are often available here like 4×6 or 5×5.
  • 📱 Stock Android: In pure Android (for example, on Pixel or Nokia) the option is hidden deeper: Settings → Display → Advanced → Grid size.

It is important to understand that increasing the number of cells automatically reduces the size of the icons, and vice versa. For example, if you select Grid 5×6 instead of 4×5, the icons will become smaller, but more applications will fit on the screen.

Some firmware also allows you to customize Indents between icons. This option is useful if you need to save space but still maintain readability. Look for it in the same sections of desktop settings under names like Icon indents or Distance between elements.

💡

If you need to maximize the number of shortcuts, try the combination: grid 5×6 + minimum icon size. This will allow you to place up to 30 applications on one screen!

3. Using third-party launchers: Nova Launcher, Apex and others

If the standard settings do not suit you, third-party launchers will open up much more possibilities for you. The most popular solutions are Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher i Action Launcher. They not only allow you to flexibly customize the size of icons, but also offer unique features such as adaptive icons, gestures and design themes.

Nova Launcher is considered one of the most functional:

  • 🔧 Installation: download from Google Play (there is free and paid Prime-version).
  • 📏 Setting icon size:
    1. Long press on the desktop → Settings.
    2. Go to Desktop → Icon size.
    3. Adjust the slider (values from 70% to 130% standard size are available).
  • 🎨 Additionally: in Nova Launcher can be customized text size under the icons, indents and even shape icons (round, square, rounded).

    • Apex Launcher offers similar features, but with an emphasis on performance:

    • 🔧 After installation, go to Apex Settings → Appearance → Icon Size.
    • 📊 Here you can set the exact size in percent (from 50% to 150%).
    • ⚡ The paid version has a function Adaptive iconsthat automatically adjusts the size to the grid.

    Third-party advantages launchers:

    • ✅ Flexible customization each element interface (not only icons, but also folders, widgets, dock panel).
    • ✅ Support icon packs from Google Play (you can completely change the icon design).
    • ✅ Possibility save and restore settings when changing device.
      • ⚠️ Attention: Some launchers (for example, Microsoft Launcher or Huawei Launcher) limit customization. Before installation, check reviews about the ability to change the size of icons.

      Download the launcher from official store (Google Play)|Make a backup copy of your current desktop settings|Check compatibility with the Android version|Check reviews about stability-->

      4. Icon packs: how to change not only the size, but also the design

      If you want not just to change the size of the shortcuts, but to completely transform their appearance, they will help icon packs (icon packs) These applications replace standard icons with stylized ones, while maintaining functionality. Many packages also allow you to adjust the scale of icons regardless of system settings.

      Popular icon packs:

      • 🎨 Whicons - minimalistic white icons with color accents.
      • 🎨 CandyCons - bright and juicy icons in the "lollipop" style.
      • 🎨 Lines Icon Pack - geometric icons with clear lines.
      • 🎨 Fluxo - dynamic icons with a movement effect.

        • How to apply an icon pack:

        1. Install the package you like from Google Play.
        2. If you are using a standard launcher, go to its settings (usually Themes → Icons) and select the installed package.
        3. In third-party launchers (for example, Nova Launcher) the path is: Settings → Appearance → Icon style → Icon pack.
        4. Some packages support Zoom - look for the option Size icons inside the package settings.

        Important: not all icon packs are compatible with all launchers. For example, MIUI often limits support for third-party icons, so for full functionality you may need to install Nova Launcher or an equivalent.

        Bonus: some icon packs (for example, Adapticons or Delta) support Dynamic iconsthat change color depending on the wallpaper or time of day. This adds a unique style to the desktop.

        Icon pack Style Zoom support MIUI compatible
        Whicons Minimalism Yes (in Nova Launcher) Partially
        CandyCons Bright colors Yes No
        Lines Icon Pack Geometry Yes Yes (with restrictions)
        Fluxo Dynamics No No

        5. Hidden Android Features: ADB Commands and Developer

        For advanced users willing to dive into technical details, there are ways to change the size of icons via Developer mode or ADB commands. These methods require caution, but allow you to achieve unique results that are not available in the standard interface.

        Method 1: Configuration through Developer mode

        1. Activate the mode developer:
          1. Go to Settings → About phone.
          2. Find the item Build number and tap on it 7 times.
          3. Enter the PIN code if required.
        2. Go back to the main settings and open the section For Developers.
        3. Find the option Minimum width (or Smallest width).
        4. Change the value (for example, from 360dp to 400dp). This will affect the scale of all interface elements, including icons.

        Method 2: ADB commands for fine tuning

        If you need to change only the size of the iconswithout affecting the rest of the interface, it will help ADB (Android Debug Bridge) works on most devices, but requires connecting to a computer.

        Instructions:

        1. Install ADB Tools on a PC (for example, Minimal ADB and Fastboot).
        2. Connect your smartphone via USB and enable debugging (in developer mode, enable USB debugging).
        3. Open the command line and enter: 
          adb shell settings put global icon_size [value]

          where [value] is the number from 0.8 (decrease) to 1.2 (increase).

        4. Reboot the device.
      ⚠️ Attention: Incorrect use of ADB may cause the interface to malfunction. Before experiments, create a backup copy of your data. Also note that after updating the firmware, the settings may be reset.
      What to do if after ADB commands the icons become too large?

      If you made a mistake with the value in the command adb shell settings put global icon_size, return the standard size with the command:

      adb shell settings delete global icon_size

      Then reboot the device. If not. helped, reset the launcher settings in the applications menu.

      6. Problems and solutions: what to do if nothing works

      Sometimes changing the size of icons can lead to unexpected consequences: icons become blurry, application names disappear, or settings simply do not apply.

      Problem 1: Settings are not saved

      • 🔄 Reboot the device - sometimes changes are applied only after a reboot.
      • 📱 If you are using a third-party launcher, check if the settings are reset after the update. Try rolling back the version or clearing the launcher cache.
      • 🔧 As a last resort, reset the launcher settings: Settings → Applications → [Launcher name] → Storage → Clear data.

      Problem 2: Icons have become blurry

      This often happens when the size is increased too much. Solutions:

      • 🖼️ Try reducing the scale by 10-15%.
      • 🎨 If you are using an icon pack, check if it supports the selected size. Some packages are optimized only for standard values.
      • 🔍 In the launcher settings, find the option Icon quality or Anti-aliasing and enable it.

      Problem 3: Application names are not displayed

      If, after changing the size of the icons, the text under them disappeared:

      • 📝 In the launcher settings, find Text size under the icons and increase it.
      • 🔄 Return the standard desktop grid table - sometimes too dense placement hides the inscriptions.
      • 🎨 There may be an option in icon packs Hide names - check it in the theme settings.

      Problem 4: Settings are missing in the firmware

      If your smartphone does not allow you to change the size of icons:

      • 📱 Install a third-party launcher (for example, Nova Launcher or Lawnchair).
      • 🔧 Try updating the firmware - new versions often add additional customization options.
      • 🛠️ For advanced users: consider installing custom firmware (for example, LineageOS), but keep in mind the risks of losing the warranty.
      💡

      If none of the methods worked, check if the manufacturer is blocking changes (for example, Huawei or Honor) limit customization in proprietary firmware.

      7. Optimal settings for different scenarios

      The choice of icon size depends on your tasks and device characteristics:

      For large screens. (6.5" or more). data-i="295">medium or large (for better readability).

      • 📱 Net: 5×6 or 6×7 (to fill the space).
      • 🔍 Icon size: 90–100% (standard or slightly enlarged).
      • 📏 Indents: medium or large (for better readability).

      Rationale: on large screens, too small icons are lost, and too large ones leave a lot of empty space.

      For compact smartphones (up to 5.5")

      • 📱 Grid: 4×5 or 4×6.
      • 🔍 Icon size: 80–85% (reduced).
      • 📏 Padding: minimal (to save space).

      Rationale: On small screens it is important to make the most of the space while maintaining ease of clickability.

      For users with vision problems

      • 📱 Grid: 4×4 or 3×5 (large cells).
      • 🔍 Icon size: 120–130%.
      • 🔤 Text under the icons: Increase the font size in the system settings (Settings → Screen → Size font).
      • 🎨 Contrast: use icon packs with high contrast (for example, Contrast Icons).

      For gamers and multitaskers

      • 📱 Grid: 5×6 or 6×6 (maximum number shortcuts).
      • 🔍 Icon size: 70–75% (minimal).
      • 🔧 Dock: Customize an additional panel with frequently used applications (in Nova Launcher: Settings → Dock).
      • ⚡ Gestures: Activate swipes for quick launch (for example, swipe up to open the application menu).

      On devices with support DeX Mode (for example, Samsung Galaxy) the size of icons on the desktop and in DeX mode is configured separately. Changes in one mode do not affect the other.

      FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the size of shortcuts on Android

      Is it possible to change the size of icons on smartphones with pure Android (Pixel, Nokia, Motorola)?

      Yes, but the options are limited. In stock Android there is no direct slider for scaling icons, but you can:

      • Change desktop grid in the launcher settings (usually 4×4, 4×5 or 5×5).
      • Set third-party launcher (for example, Nova Launcher), where flexible scaling is available.
      • Use developer mode and change the parameter Minimum width (affects all interface elements).

      On Pixel you can also activate the function Adaptive icons in the launcher settings, but this does not change their size, only their shape.

      Why were the icon size settings reset after a firmware update?

      This is a typical problem with major Android updates. Manufacturers often reset the launcher settings to standard, especially if the shell version has been updated (for example, from MIUI 12 to MIUI 13).

      What to do:

      • If you used third-party launcher, just reconfigure it - all your themes and icon packs will be saved.
      • If you used standard launcher, you will have to re-adjust the icon size and grid.
      • For future updates, make backup settings launcher (in Nova Launcher this is done in the menu Backup copying).

      In some cases, clearing the launcher cache helps: Settings → Applications → [Launcher name] → Storage → Clear cache.

      How to make icons round or square?

      The shape of the icons is changed not through the size settings, but with the help of:

      • Packages. icons: many themes (for example, Whicons or CandyCons) offer round or rounded icons After installing the package, the shape will change automatically.
      • Settings launcher: in Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher there is an option Icon shape (Settings → Appearance → Icon shape).Options available: Circle, Square, Rounded square etc.
      • Branded themes: some manufacturers (for example, Samsung or Huawei) offer built-in themes with round icons. Look for them in the menu Themes or Style.

      Please note: not all applications support adaptive icons. In this case, the shape of standard icons will remain unchanged.

      Is it possible to change the size of icons only for individual applications?

      In standard ones There is no such function in Android settings - the icon size changes globally for all shortcuts. However, there are workarounds:

      • Creating duplicates shortcuts: in some launchers (for example, Nova Launcheryou can create duplicate shortcut and manually resize it through the editing menu.
      • Using widgets: Some widgets (for example, UCCW or KWGT) allow you to create custom icons of arbitrary size.
      • Icon packs with responsive support: Some themes (for example Adapticons) offer different sizes for different applications, but this depends on the implementation of the package.

      For full control over each shortcut, you will need to manually work with the icon image and create custom shortcuts through launcher.

      Does the size of icons affect the performance of the smartphone?

      No, changing the size of shortcuts does not affect the operation. processor or RAM. This is a purely visual setting that:

      • Does not affect the operation of the processor or RAM.
      • Does not increase battery consumption.
      • Does not affect the speed of opening applications.

      However, there are nuances:

      • Too small icons can complicate navigation and increase the number of random clicks.
      • Using icon packs high resolution (4K) may theoretically take up a little more memory, but in practice this is not noticeable.
      • Side launchers (for example Nova Launcher) consume a little more RAM than standard ones, but the difference is minimal (usually 50-100 MB).

        • If you notice lag after resizing icons, most likely this is not the problem, but a background process or lack of resources.