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How to Install a Custom Theme on Android
Edited 7 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
AndroidThemesCustomizationMobileSmartphoneUser InterfacePersonalizationOperating SystemDevice ManagementVisualsAppearance SettingsHome ScreenIconsDevice SettingsTheme ManagementAndroid CustomizationGoogleDesignApp SettingsDevice Configuration
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Customizing your Android device is a great way to make it truly your own. One of the most popular ways to personalize your phone or tablet is by installing custom themes. This guide will take you through the process in detailed steps, ensuring that you can modify your device to your liking without any hassle. We'll explore different methods like using third-party launcher apps, the built-in theme engine, and root-based methods. Let's dive in!
Understanding Android themes
Themes on Android are a set of comprehensive customizations that affect the look and feel of your device's UI (user interface). This includes wallpapers, icons, fonts, colors, and sometimes even sounds. Custom themes can significantly change the look of your device and improve your user experience.
Basic requirements for installing a custom theme
Before you get started, there are a few things you need to make sure of:
- Your Android device must be compatible with the theme you want to install.
- Enough storage space to download and install themes and related apps.
- Active internet connection to download themes and required tools.
Ways to install custom themes on Android
We'll discuss three main ways to install a custom theme:
- Using third-party launcher apps
- Using the built-in theme engine
- Using root-based methods
1. Using third-party launcher apps
Third-party launchers are apps that replace the default interface of your Android device. Many popular launchers come with support for custom themes.
Steps to follow
- Choose a launcher
There are many popular launchers available. Some of the most commonly used are:
- Install launcher
Go to Google Play Store, search for your chosen launcher, and install it.
- Set the launcher as default
Once installed, open the launcher app and follow the prompts to set it as the default launcher. This will replace your existing home screen with the new one provided by the launcher.
- Download and apply themes
Most launchers have a theme store where you can browse and download themes.
Example using Nova Launcher:
- Open Nova Launcher Settings → Look and Feel → Icon Theme
- Select the theme you want to apply, and it will be applied to your home screen.
Third-party launchers are very user-friendly and offer a wide range of customization options, providing a simple way to apply themes without rooting your device.
2. Using the built-in theme engine
Some Android device manufacturers include built-in theme engines in their custom Android skins, such as Samsung's One UI, Huawei's EMUI, and Xiaomi's MIUI. These theme engines provide a straightforward way to apply themes without the need for additional apps.
Steps to follow
- Open the theme store
Go to the Themes section on your device. This can usually be found in the Settings menu or accessed through a dedicated app.
- For Samsung: Go to Settings → Wallpapers and Themes
- For Xiaomi: Open the Themes app
- For Huawei: Go to Settings → Themes
- Browse themes
Browse the themes available in the Theme Store. You can often search by categories, such as popular, new, or specific styles.
- Download and apply the theme
When you find a theme you like, click to download it. Once the download is complete, you can apply the theme to your device.
Built-in theme engines are convenient because they are designed specifically for your device, ensuring compatibility and ease of use.
3. Using root-based methods
Rooting your Android device gives you full control over its system. This means you can use more advanced and powerful tools to customize your themes. Note that rooting may void your warranty and pose a security risk, so proceed with caution.
Steps to follow
- Root your device
The rooting process varies depending on your device model and manufacturer. You will need to refer to a tutorial or guide specific to your phone or tablet model. Common tools used for rooting include Magisk and SuperSU.
- Install theme engine
After rooting, you can use advanced theme engines such as Substratum or Xposed Framework.
- Substratum
Substratum is a popular theme engine for rooted devices. You can install Substratum from the Google Play Store.
<code>Step 1: Download and install Substratum from the Play Store.</code> <code>Step 2: Download Substratum themes from the Play Store.</code> <code>Step 3: Open Substratum, select the theme, and follow the prompts to apply it.</code> - Xposed Framework
The Xposed Framework allows for extensive customization of your device. Once installed, you can use modules to apply themes and other modifications.
<code>Step 1: Install Xposed Installer app.</code> <code>Step 2: Download an Xposed module for theming, such as "Xinsta".</code> <code>Step 3: Activate the module within Xposed Installer and reboot the device.</code>
- Substratum
Root-based methods offer the most extensive customization options, but have higher risks and complications.
Revert to the default theme
If you ever want to go back to the default theme of your Android device, the process is simple.
Using a third-party launcher
- Open launcher settings
Go to Settings of the launcher app you are using.
- Revert to default icon
Look for the option to revert to the default theme or icons in the launcher settings.
Using the built-in theme engine
- Open the theme store
Go to the Theme Store app or section on your device.
- Apply default theme
View the default theme in the Store and apply it.
Using root-based methods
- Open the theme engine
Open the theme engine app (Substratum or Xposed) that you used to apply the custom theme.
- Uninstall or undo changes
Either uninstall the custom theme or find the option to restore the default settings within the theme engine.
Conclusion
Installing custom themes on your Android device can significantly improve its look and feel. Whether you use a third-party launcher, built-in theme engine or root-based methods, each approach has its own benefits and steps. Always remember to ensure compatibility, backup your data before making significant changes and exercise caution when rooting your device.
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