Android 16 may bring back custom icon shapes

Android users have good news as they could soon get back the custom icon shapes feature in Android 16, according to the Google News Telegram channel. The popular feature lets users change the shapes of their home screen icons. Google removed it in recent Android updates. However, it appears that the tech giant is now testing its return as a customization tool.

Android 16 might bring back a popular feature

Google recently introduced Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1, which contained several updates, including the addition of a potential new customization feature. As per Google News, the version includes a hidden “app shape & layout” menu within the Pixel wallpaper app, indicating possible enhancements to icon customization in the Android 16 update. The “app shape & layout” feature may signal Google’s plan to bring back custom icon shapes in Android 16. Users will likely welcome this move.

The newly discovered menu has two tabs: Shape and Layout. The Shape tab reportedly offers six unique options for users to alter their home screen icon shapes, while the Layout tab includes choices to adjust the home screen grid layout. Although the feature is not yet functional in Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1, it hints at possible custom icon shapes in Android 16, potentially restoring one of Android’s popular personalization features.

Custom icon shapes have been a highly requested feature among users. This option existed in earlier versions but was later removed when Google simplified customization under its Material You design. Now, with Android 16, the company may bring back custom icon shapes. This update would respond directly to user demand for more control over home screen visuals.

Awaiting confirmation

Although the custom icon shapes feature is still in early development and not yet confirmed, its presence in the Pixel wallpaper app suggests it could debut in Android 16. If released, this feature would join Android’s broad range of customization tools, from widgets to layout adjustments. Users hoping to customize their app icons can anticipate potential updates in Android 16 or continue using third-party launchers until the feature becomes widely available.