The top notification bar (status bar) is one of the most noticeable elements of the Android interface, but not all users know that its color can be changed. By default, manufacturers set standard shades (black, white or translucent), which do not always harmonize with the wallpaper, theme or personal preferences. In this article, we will look at all the working methods for changing the color of the panel - from simple settings in the smartphone menu to advanced methods using ADB and root access.

It is important to understand that customization options depend on the version Androidof the manufacturer's shell (MIUI, One UI, ColorOS etc.) and even device models. For example, on Google Pixel with pure Android, some options are available, but on Samsung Galaxy - completely different ones. We will look at universal solutions, as well as specific instructions for popular brands.

If you want to not only change the color, but also add transparency, hide icons, or completely redesign the panel, there is a section at the end of the article with recommendations for deep customization. And for those who are afraid of breaking something, we have prepared FAQ with answers to frequently asked questions.

1. Standard Android settings: change color without third-party tools

On some devices, the color of the top bar can be changed directly in the settings menu - without installing applications or using a computer. This method is the safest, but does not work on all smartphones.

Most often, the option is available in shells MIUI (Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO) and ColorOS (Oppo, Realme, OnePlus). On Samsung s One UI or Google Pixel there are usually no standard tools for changing the color of the panel - you will have to use other methods (more on them below).

  • 📱 For Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO: go to Settings → Screen → Accent colors. Here you can select one of the proposed shades, which will automatically be applied to the notification panel and other interface elements.
  • 🎨 For Oppo/Realme/OnePlus: open Settings → Personalization → Color scheme. Some firmware allows you to choose not only an accent color, but also a shade for the panel.
  • ⚠️ For Samsung: in One UI there is no direct option to change the color of the panel, but you can enable Dark theme (Settings → Display → Dark mode), which will make the panel black.
⚠️ Attention: On devices with Android 12+ and dynamic theme (Material You), the color of the panel can automatically adjust to the wallpaper. To disable this, go to Settings → Wallpaper and style → Color palette and select manual mode.

If your firmware does not have such options, do not worry - below we will look at alternative methods, including using launchers and ADB.

📊 What Android shell do you have on your smartphone?
MIUI (Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO)
One UI (Samsung)
ColorOS (Oppo/Realme/OnePlus)
Pure Android (Pixel/Motorola)
Other

2. Using launchers: an easy way to change the color of the panel

If the standard settings do not help, you can use third-party launchers. Many of them allow you to customize not only the main screen, but also the top panel. This method does not require root access and is suitable for most devices.

The most popular launchers that support changing the panel color:

  • 🌈 Nova Launcher — allows you to adjust the transparency and color of the panel via a plugin Nova Launcher TeslaCoil Addon (required premium version).
  • 🎭 Lawnchair - free open source launcher, supports changing the panel color to Android 10+.
  • 🔧 Action Launcher - has built-in options for customizing the notification panel (available in the paid version).

Instructions for Nova Launcher:

  1. Install Nova Launcher i TeslaCoil Addon.
  2. Launch the launcher and go to its settings: Long press on the desktop → Settings → Notification panel.
  3. Enable the option Notification bar color and select the desired one tint.
  4. Apply changes and reboot the launcher (or device).
⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example Samsung or Huawei) launchers may not have full control over the notification bar due to manufacturer restrictions. In this case, only ADB or root.

If the launcher is not suitable, the next section is devoted to a more advanced method - using ADB to change color without root access.

Install ADB drivers on PC|

Enable USB debugging on your smartphone|

Download Android SDK platform tools|

Create a backup copy of data-->

3. ADB commands: change the color of the panel without root (for experienced users)

The method using Android Debug Bridge (ADB) is suitable for those who are ready to connect their smartphone to the computer and execute several commands. This is one of the most universal methods, working on most devices with Android 8.0+.

Advantages of the method:

  • ✅ Does not require root access.
  • ✅ Works on most shells (MIUI, One UI, ColorOS i etc.).
  • ✅ Allows you to set any color in the format HEX (for example, #FF0000 for red).

Instructions:

  1. Enable USB debugging:
    • Go to Settings → About phone → Build number and tap on it 7 times to activate developer mode.
    • Go back to Settings → System → For developers i enable USB debugging.
  • Connect your smartphone to the PC:
    • Download Platform Tools from Google and unzip archive.
    • Connect your phone via USB and enter in the command line (in the folder with adb.exe):
      adb devices

      If the device is displayed, you can continue.

    • Change the panel color:

      Use the command (replace #RRGGBB with desired color, for example #4285F4 for blue):

      adb shell settings put global status_bar_color #RRGGBB

      For transparency, add an alpha channel (for example, #80FF0000 for translucent red).

    • Reboot device: changes will be applied after reboot.
    Color HEX code ADB command
    Black #000000 adb shell settings put global status_bar_color #000000
    White #FFFFFF adb shell settings put global status_bar_color #FFFFFF
    Blue (Google) #4285F4 adb shell settings put global status_bar_color #4285F4
    Transparent #00000000 adb shell settings put global status_bar_color #00000000
    ⚠️ Attention: On some devices (Samsung, Xiaomi s MIUI 13+) after updating the firmware, the color may be reset. To avoid this, create a script to automatically apply the command upon boot (for example, via Tasker or MacroDroid).

    If ADB seems too complicated, the next section is dedicated to applications that simplify the process.

    💡

    Before using ADB, make a backup copy of important data. In rare cases, incorrect commands can lead to. to interface failures.

    4. Applications for customization: change the color without the command line

    If you don’t want to mess around with ADB, you can use specialized applications. They offer a convenient interface for changing the color of the panel, but may require additional permissions or root.

    Top 3 applications. to change the color of the top panel:

    • 🎨 StatusBar Color Changer —a simple application with a preview. Works on most devices without root, but on some it requires ADB to be activated.
    • 🔧 Hex Installer —allows you to change the color of the panel, icons and other elements. Supports HEX-codes and gradients.
    • 🌈 Substratum Theme Engine is a powerful tool for deep customization, but requires root or Magisk.

    Instructions for StatusBar Color Changer:

    1. Install the application from Google Play.
    2. Open it and grant access to Overlay on top of other applications (necessary for work).
    3. Select a color from the palette or enter HEXcode.
    4. Click Apply and confirm the changes.

    If the application does not work, try:

    • 🔄 Reboot the device.
    • 🔧 Enable the option in the developer settings USB debugging (even if you are not connecting to a PC).
    • 📱 Install Magisk (if available root) and module Substratum for advanced features.
    ⚠️ Attention: Some applications (for example Substratum) may conflict with manufacturers' shells (MIUI, One UI). Before installation, check compatibility on the forums (for example, XDA Developers).

    If none of the above methods worked, the last option remains - getting root access.

    What to do if the color does not change?

    If, after applying the changes, the color of the panel remains the same, check:

    1. Manufacturer's shell — some (for example, EMUI from Huawei) block changes.

    2. Android version — Android 13+ may be required additional permissions.

    3. Conflicts with other applications — disable themes or launchers that may override settings.

    4. Errors in ADB commands —make sure that the HEXcode is entered correctly (for example #FF0000, and not FF0000).

    5. Root access: full control over the notification panel

    If you are ready to receive root access, almost unlimited customization options. With root you can change not only the color, but also the transparency, fonts, icon placement and even add animations.

    Important: obtaining root access will void the warranty and may lead to unstable operation of the device. Before the procedure, be sure to make a backup copy of everything. data.

    Ways to change the color of the panel with root:

    • 📝 Manually editing files:
      • Open the file /system/build.prop in a text editor (for example, Root Explorer).
      • Add the line: ro.sf.lcd_density=480 (value may vary) and status_bar_color=#RRGGBB.
      • Save changes and restart the device.
    • 🎨 Root-enabled applications:
      • Substratum + themes (for example, Swift Black or PitchBlack).
      • Xposed Framework + module GravityBox (for older versions of Android).
      • Magisk Modules —for example, StatusBar Color Changer for Magisk.

    Instructions for Magisk:

    1. Install Magisk and get root.
    2. Download the module StatusBar Color Changer from the repository Magisk.
    3. Install the module via Magisk Manager and reboot the device.
    4. Open the module application and select the desired color.
    ⚠️ Attention: On devices with Android 12+ and Dynamic Color (for example, Google Pixel), manual color change may conflict with the system theme. To avoid problems, disable Adaptive colors in the wallpaper settings.

    If you do not want to receive root, but need deep customization, consider alternative firmware.

    💡

    Root access gives maximum freedom of customization, but requires caution. Always check the compatibility of the modules with your version of Android and device model.

    6. Custom firmware: a radical solution for enthusiasts

    If standard methods are not enough for you, you can install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS, Pixel Experience or HavocOS). They offer advanced interface settings, including flexible customization of the notification panel.

    Advantages of custom firmware:

    • 🔧 Full control over the appearance of the system.
    • 🚀 Optimizing performance and removing bloatware.
    • 🆕 Regular updates (even for older devices).

    How to install custom firmware:

    1. Unlock bootloader (instructions depend on the model; for Xiaomi you need to obtain permission via Mi Unlock).
    2. Install custom recovery (TWRP or OrangeFox).
    3. Download the firmware (for example, from XDA Developers) and GApps (if you need Google services).
    4. Flash the firmware via recovery and run wipe cache/dalvik.

    After installing custom firmware (for example, LineageOS):

    1. Go to Settings → Interface → Notification panel.
    2. Select a color, transparency and other parameters.
    3. Apply the changes and reboot the device.
    ⚠️ Attention: Installing custom firmware can lead to data loss, disruption of some functions (for example, Samsung Pay or Widevine L1 for Netflix in HD) and void the warranty. Before the procedure, read the reviews. about the firmware for your model.

    If custom firmware seems too complicated, in the next section we will look at alternative methods of visual customization.

    7. Alternative ways to customize the notification panel

    If changing the color does not work. desired result, you can go ahead and completely redesign the notification panel. Here are some ideas:

    • 🖼️ Transparent panel:

      On some devices you can make the panel translucent or completely transparent. To do this:

      • Use ADB-command: adb shell settings put global status_bar_transparent 1.
      • Or install a theme with a transparent panel via Substratum.
    • 📱 Hide icons:

      You can hide unnecessary icons (for example, battery indicator or time) using:

      • Nacho Notch (for devices with a notch).
      • Module Xposed Hide StatusBar Icons.
    • 🎭 Dynamic color:

      On Android 12+ you can enable the adaptive color of the panel, which will adapt to the wallpaper:

      • Go to Settings → Wallpaper and style → Color palette.
      • Select Adaptive colors.

    For those who like to experiment:

    • 🔄 Animations: using Magisk-module Fluid Navigation Gestures you can add animations when swiping across the panel.
    • 📊 Additional information: module StatusBar Tweaks allows you to display CPU temperature, network speed and other data on the panel.

    If you want to return everything as it was, in the next section we will tell you how to reset the settings.

    💡

    Before installing modules for Magisk or Xposed, always check their compatibility with your version of Android. Incompatible modules can cause bootloop (loop reboot).

    8. How to return the standard color of the notification panel

    If after experiments you want to return the original color of the panel, do the following:

    For standard settings:

    • Go to Settings → Display → Accent colors (or a similar section) and select the default color.
    • Disable the dark theme if it was enabled.

    For ADB:

    Enter a command to reset the color (replace #RRGGBB with standard the color of your firmware, for example, #000000 for black):

    adb shell settings delete global status_bar_color

    For applications:

    • Open the application (for example, StatusBar Color Changer) and press Reset or Default.
    • Uninstall the application if it is no longer needed.

    For root/Magisk:

    • Remove installed modules via Magisk Manager.
    • Restore the original build.prop from backup.

    For custom firmware:

    • Return to stock firmware via fastboot or recovery.
    • Or reset the firmware settings to factory settings (Factory Reset in recovery).
    ⚠️ Attention: If after resetting the panel is displayed incorrectly (for example, it has become completely transparent or disappeared), try:
    • Reboot the device in Safe Mode (hold down the power button → Reboot in safe mode).
    • Delete the system cache via recovery (Wipe → Cache).
    • Update the firmware to the latest version.

    If all else fails, contact the forum XDA Developers or official support from the manufacturer.

    💡

    Always create backup copy before experimenting with system settings. This will help quickly return the device to functionality in case of an error.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about changing the panel color on Android

    ❓ Is it possible to change the color of the panel on Samsung without root?

    On most devices Samsung s One UI there are no standard options for changing the color of the panel. However, you can:

    • Enable Dark mode (Settings → Screen) so that the panel turns black.
    • Use ADB-commands (section 3 of the article).
    • Install a launcher with support for customizing the panel (for example, Nova Launcher + TeslaCoil Addon).

    On Android 12+ you can try enabling Adaptive colors in the wallpaper settings - this will change the shade of the panel depending on background.

    ❓ Why did the panel become transparent after changing the color and the icons are not readable?

    This happens if you set the color too light (for example, #FFFFFF) or enabled transparency Solutions:

    • Choose a darker shade (eg. #333333).
    • Disable transparency with the command: adb shell settings put global status_bar_transparent 0.
    • Enable Dark themeif the icons blend into the background.
    ❓ Does the ADB method work on Android 13?

    Yes, but Android 13+ may require additional permissions. If the command does not work:

    1. Check if USB debugging is enabled (Settings → For developers).
    2. Run the command with superuser rights (if available root):
      su -c settings put global status_bar_color #RRGGBB
    3. Reboot the device after applying the command.

    On some devices (for example Google Pixel 7), system settings may override the color of the panel. In this case, only root or custom firmware.

    ❓ Is it possible to change the color of the panel separately for each application?

    Yes, but this will require:

    • Root access + module Per-App StatusBar Color for Magisk.
    • ADB + application Tasker with plugin AutoTools (to automate the color change when opening applications).
    • Custom firmware with personalization support (for example, HavocOS).

    Without root there is no such option, since Android does not provide an API for dynamically changing the color of the panel depending on the application.

    ❓ How to make a gradient panel color?

    A gradient panel can be created using:

    • Substratum + theme with gradients (for example, Swift Dark).
    • Magisk module StatusBar Gradient (available on XDA Developers).
    • Custom firmware (for example, DerpFest or CrDroid), where there are built-in options for gradients.

    For ADB gradients cannot be set - only a solid color.