Themed icons have emerged as a popular and enjoyable feature of Android’s Material You design language, gaining traction among numerous Android applications. In the latest Android 14 Beta 3, these themed icons have undergone a makeover, provoking discussions on whether the changes constitute an improvement.
The most notable update in this beta release involves the infusion of more vibrant colors into Android’s themed icons. Both the backgrounds and the icons themselves now possess a heightened color saturation. However, this adjustment has come at the expense of diminished contrast compared to previous iterations.
Personally, I find myself harboring mixed feelings regarding this new visual aesthetic. Regardless of the color palette I select, the icons seem to lack harmony with my wallpaper, failing to blend seamlessly. Moreover, they exude a relatively subdued and less striking appearance, which is somewhat disappointing. Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that these revamped icons do fare better in light mode as opposed to dark mode, where the color roles are reversed, allowing for improved visual alignment.
The changes introduced in Android 14 Beta 3 have undoubtedly sparked a range of opinions among Android users. While some may appreciate the vibrant and lively aura that the new icons bring, others may find them less visually impactful compared to their predecessors. Ultimately, the final judgment on these updates will be subject to personal preferences and individual tastes.
It is important to bear in mind that this is a beta release, and Google may further refine the themed icons based on user feedback and the overall reception of the changes. As Android continues to evolve, it will be intriguing to witness how these design choices develop and whether they will find wider acceptance in future updates.
