Instagram has been our favorite app for a while now (11 years and counting to be precise) and
is continuing its legacy with new features coming in every other day. Instagram is also the
beloved application not only because it is a communication and blogging app, but also a place of
work for many influencers, the amount of exposure that Instagram provides to its influencer
community is incomparable with features like the story, live video, IGTV, personal and group calling
and messaging, account verification, and reels—Instagram has it all!
With the passing of its 10th anniversary, Instagram launched a new feature in October 2020.
for you to be able to change the Instagram app icon to any icon that has been available in the past
10 years ago, as part of its decade celebration, Instagram made this feature available for all Instagram
users, be it IOS or Android. Hence, if you are looking for steps on how to make use of this
feature, let me ease the search for you!
Table of Contents
Can you Change the Instagram app icon?
Everyone is familiar with the famous Instagram icon. You must have seen the same icon for many years. But, luckily, it is possible to change the Instagram icon. There’s a specific feature that lets you change the app’s icon. Changing the Instagram icon is not that difficult. It’s something that you can do during special events or updates. Now, let’s know the ways to change the Instagram icons.
Why Did Instagram Launch Custom Icons?
Instagram introduced the custom icon feature as a way to celebrate its 10th anniversary. It was more than just a cosmetic update—it was a nostalgic gesture to thank users for their loyalty over the years. By allowing people to switch back to old Instagram icons, including the classic brown camera and other retro styles, the platform tapped into users’ memories and emotional connection with the app. It also served as a fun and engaging way to personalize one’s phone, making users feel more involved in Instagram’s evolution.
When Was the Icon Customization Feature Introduced?
The custom icon feature was officially rolled out in October 2020, during Instagram’s 10-year anniversary celebration. It was available for a limited time on both iOS and Android devices and was part of a hidden Easter egg within the app’s settings. While it wasn’t a permanent update, it generated a lot of buzz and excitement, allowing users to relive the app’s visual history from 2010 to the present.
Steps to change the Instagram app icon for both Android and IOS
Step 1
Begin with launching Instagram.
Step 2
Next, click on the icon of your profile and select the option for ‘settings’, then on the top
right of your screen, select the three lines to open the menu and select settings.
Step 3
You now have to scroll the screen in a downward pull manner and hold it until a series of
emoticons appear.
Step 4
Right after that, the window with all icons will appear and you can select the icon of your
choice and select ‘add’ to successfully change it.
Tip
The steps to change the Instagram application icon are the same for Android and IOS, except
have some different icons.
Tips to Fix the Instagram Icon Change Not Working
If you’re having trouble changing your Instagram icon, you’re not alone. Many users have reported this issue, especially after the initial launch of the feature back in 2020. While the feature may no longer be officially available, there are still a few things you can try to troubleshoot and potentially work around the issue.
How to Update Instagram to the Latest Version
One of the most important steps is making sure you have the latest version of the Instagram app installed. Sometimes, older versions lack access to limited-time features or suffer from bugs that prevent full functionality.
To update Instagram:
- Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
- Search for Instagram
- If you see the option to Update, tap it
- Once the app updates, reopen it and check the settings again
An outdated app version might be the reason the icon customization isn’t visible.
How to Clear Cache and Restart the App
If you’ve updated the app and still don’t see the icon feature, clearing your cache might help:
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Instagram > Storage > Clear Cache
- On iOS: You’ll need to delete and reinstall the app to clear the cache
After clearing the cache, force close the app and restart it. This can resolve hidden glitches and refresh the app interface.
Can a third-party app help you change the icon?
Yes, third-party apps and custom launchers can let you change app icons manually. For Android, apps like Nova Launcher or Shortcut Maker allow full customization. iOS users can use the Shortcuts app to create custom icons for Instagram using any image. While these don’t change the icon natively within Instagram, they give your home screen a personalized look.
Why Can’t I See the Option to Change the Icon?
If you can’t find the option to change your Instagram icon, you’re not alone—it’s a common issue for many users. The main reason is that the feature was part of a limited-time update launched during Instagram’s 10th anniversary in October 2020. Since then, Instagram has removed the feature, so it’s no longer available in the current version of the app.
Another possible reason could be that your app is not updated or your device is not compatible with special features like this. Instagram tends to roll out new tools gradually or only during special events, so unless the icon change feature is reintroduced in a future update, it won’t show up in your settings menu.
In short, if you don’t see the option, it’s likely because the feature has been officially discontinued or your version of the app doesn’t support it.
What Happens If You Can’t Change the Icon?
If you can’t change the Instagram icon, it may happen due to various reasons. Some of the possible reasons are;
Feature availability: Instagram removes or updates this feature. So, this specific feature may not be available all the time. Hence, you need to keep an eye on the updates during special events, or Instagram anniversaries.
Device compatibility: This specific feature may not be available on all devices. Newer models are more likely to support these types of customization.
Outdated app version: For the Instagram Icon change, you need to make sure that you have the latest version of the Instagram app. You can check for updates in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
Why Can’t I Change the Instagram App Icon?
If you’re trying to change your Instagram app icon but can’t find the option, you’re not alone. Many users have experienced this confusion, especially after hearing about the feature during Instagram’s 10th anniversary. While it was a fun and widely loved addition, not everyone has access to it anymore. Below are the key reasons why you may not be able to change your Instagram app icon right now.
Is Your Instagram App Updated?
The first and most common reason why the icon change option isn’t showing up is that your Instagram app might not be updated to the latest version. Instagram occasionally rolls out features through updates, and older versions may lack the newest or time-limited functionalities.
To check and update the app:
- Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
- Search for Instagram
- Tap Update if the button appears
Once updated, restart the app and check again. Even though the icon customization feature may no longer be active, using the latest version ensures you won’t miss out if it returns.
Is Your Device Compatible with Icon Customization?
Another possibility is that your device may not support this specific customization. When Instagram released the icon change feature in 2020, it was available across both Android and iOS—but not on all devices or OS versions. For example, older Android models or iPhones running outdated iOS versions might not have displayed the feature properly.
Additionally, newer updates from Apple and Google have introduced tighter control over app customizations, which might also prevent Instagram from offering icon changes natively anymore.
Is the feature temporarily removed by Instagram?
Lastly, the most likely reason you can’t access the feature today is that Instagram removed it. The icon change was part of a limited-time celebration for Instagram’s 10th anniversary in October 2020. It wasn’t designed to be a permanent setting. Instagram occasionally releases fun features during milestones or campaigns, but they often disappear after the event ends.
So, if you’re searching for this feature now and can’t find it, it’s not a glitch—it’s simply no longer supported. However, that doesn’t mean it’s gone forever. Instagram may reintroduce similar personalization features during future anniversaries or updates.
Is Changing the Instagram Icon Safe?
With so many users experimenting with app customizations, especially when it comes to changing the Instagram icon, one common question arises: Is it actually safe to do this? Whether you’re using built-in features, mobile settings, or third-party apps to tweak your Instagram icon, it’s important to know what’s safe and what could potentially put your account or device at risk. Let’s break it down to help you make the best decision.
Does It Affect Your Account or Security?
If you’re using Instagram’s official built-in feature (like the one launched during the 10th anniversary in 2020), then yes—changing the app icon is completely safe. These in-app options are designed and tested by Instagram and do not compromise your account, your data, or your phone’s performance.
However, if you’re using third-party apps or custom launchers to change the Instagram icon manually, there are a few things to be cautious about. Most reputable icon changer apps are safe, but some lesser-known ones may request excessive permissions or even contain malware. Always read user reviews and only download apps from trusted sources like the App Store or Google Play Store.
Keep in mind that changing the icon through unofficial methods (like Android launchers or iOS Shortcuts) does not alter the Instagram app itself—it only changes how the app appears on your home screen. Your login, privacy, and data settings remain untouched.
Will Instagram Ban You for Customizing the Icon?
No, Instagram will not ban or penalize you for changing the app icon. When Instagram offered the official icon change feature in 2020, they actually encouraged users to explore different styles. Even if you’re using third-party methods now to customize how Instagram appears on your home screen, Instagram has no policy against that.
Instagram’s community guidelines and terms of service mainly focus on the content you post, how you interact with other users, and how you use the platform, not how the app icon looks on your device.
In short, as long as you’re not using tools that interfere with Instagram’s internal functions or violate its terms (such as automation or hacking tools), you’re in the clear.
Is Changing the Instagram Icon Safe?
Changing the Instagram app icon can be a fun way to personalize your device and give your home screen a fresh look. But with so many people experimenting with custom icons—whether through Instagram’s official features or third-party apps—it’s natural to wonder if doing so is safe. The good news is that, in most cases, it’s completely harmless. Still, it’s important to understand how these icon changes work and what they actually affect.
Does It Affect Your Account or Security?
When you change the Instagram icon using an official method, like the feature introduced during Instagram’s 10th anniversary, it does not affect your account, your login credentials, or your personal data. These kinds of features are built directly into the app and are safe to use. Instagram ensures that official customization options are thoroughly tested and secure.
However, if you’re using third-party apps or shortcuts to change the icon, you should exercise caution. Many apps available on the App Store or Google Play Store let you swap app icons without needing to root or jailbreak your phone. These are generally safe, especially if they have good reviews and come from trusted developers.
That said, avoid downloading icon-changing apps from unknown or sketchy sources. Some could ask for unnecessary permissions or include ads and malware. Also, remember that these methods don’t actually change the Instagram app itself—they just place a shortcut on your home screen with a custom image.
Will Instagram Ban You for Customizing the Icon?
No, Instagram will not ban you for customizing your app icon. The platform has never penalized users for changing how the app looks on their home screen. In fact, Instagram itself offered the icon customization feature back in 2020 as a fun way to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Since then, many users have continued to use unofficial methods to personalize their app icons.
Instagram is primarily concerned with how users behave on the platform, such as following the content guidelines and avoiding spam, not how the app icon appears on your device. As long as you’re not violating Instagram’s terms of service or using unauthorized software to access its systems, you’re in no danger of getting banned for icon customization.
Final Thoughts on Instagram Icon Customization
Customizing the Instagram app icon was a feature that sparked joy for many users, allowing them to give their home screens a nostalgic or creative touch. Whether you preferred the original vintage camera logo or a sleek dark mode icon, it was a simple way to connect with the app’s history while making your device feel more personal. Though the feature was only available for a short period in 2020, it left a lasting impression—and many users are still hoping for its return.
Even though it’s not currently possible to change the Instagram icon directly within the app, that hasn’t stopped people from using workarounds through iOS Shortcuts or Android launchers. These methods may not be as convenient as an in-app option, but they show how strong the demand for customization still is.
Will Instagram Bring Back the Icon Feature in Future Updates?
While Instagram hasn’t officially announced plans to bring back the custom icon feature, there’s always a chance it could return—especially during future anniversaries or special events. The feature was part of Instagram’s 10th birthday celebration, and it received overwhelmingly positive feedback from users. That kind of enthusiasm doesn’t go unnoticed.
Instagram is constantly testing and releasing new features, so it’s possible they could reintroduce icon customization as part of a seasonal update or special promotion. Until then, users can still get creative by using third-party tools or system shortcuts to redesign how the app icon appears.
In the end, Instagram icon customization is a small but meaningful way for users to personalize their digital space—and if the past is any indicator, the feature could make a comeback when we least expect it.Also Read: Trick to Bypass Instagram Number Verification
