The best thing about an Android phone, of course, is that you can make your device look just the way you like it to a degree that doesn't quite happen on other operating systems. 

Android turns up with endless possibilities for customization-from the usually easily swapped themes and launchers to download custom icon packs, and here's how to change the look and feel of your phone to make it really yours.

Pick a Theme (Available on Certain Phones)

Some Android handsets allow changing the theme of natively built applications, dialer for phones, messenger, and Settings list. These themes usually bring options from light to dark modes, so the color variety is added there. 

As an example, Google Pixel phones offer the possibility to use either light or dark themes for particular applications, for instance, Quick Settings and Phone Dialer.

If you're running a Samsung Galaxy, then you're all set. As it turns out, Samsung has an exclusive theme store, and you can have quite a wide range of customizations - from changing the icon as well as navigation button appearance to changing the appearance of the Settings and Quick Settings menus. 

You can even personalize your Always-on-Display to add your personal twist to your phone when it's idle.

If your phone does not have some built-in theming option available, then there is no concern. You can simply download alternative apps from the Google Play store. The Google Messages text app allows a theme for sending, while the Solid Explorer file browser has a themed user interface.

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Choose a Custom Launcher 

You'll see the most dramatic change in the launcher by customizing your Android device. The launcher is just the interface you use to navigate through your phone. It determines what your home screen will look like, the layout of your apps, and how you navigate between them.

Probably the most popular launcher is Nova Launcher, and they both have a free version as well as a paid one. At this price point, it's quite a powerful freemium: icon sizes can be changed, a custom icon pack can be used, folders can be styled, and shortcuts for apps can be created. 

Actually, unlocking it for $5 adds gesture control and the ability to hide unused apps from your app drawer, so great if you're looking to strip down the experience to just what you need.

Action Launcher is another great option. It brings the great features of Google's Pixel Launcher to almost any Android device, greatly customizable. It includes features such as Shutters, where you swipe up from an app icon to view its widget. 

Quickdrawer is offered as well, a nice tool that gives you access to all your apps by swiping from the left side.

If neither of the above options excites you, there are many more launchers for download on the Play Store, each with its own set of features. Just try a few and you'll eventually find one that will suit your style.

Adding Icon Packs and Wallpapers

Now that you've chosen your theme and launcher, it is time to refine all the details in making your phone look like yours by adding custom icon packs and wallpapers. 

Icon packs also let you customize the look of your app icons; the whole home screen becomes cohesive and different from others. While there's a minimalist white icon set called Whicons, you may have some colorful retro-combat designs in Moonshine Pro. 

Most icon packs are absolutely free or cost only a few dollars. For instance, you can try various styles without spending much money.

To go with your new icon, the proper wallpaper will also make the cut. Since your phone probably includes some wallpapers initially, an app like Backdrops gives you an absolute treasure trove of impressive images. 

Of course, you can further personalize your home screen by setting a photo of your loved ones or pets as the wallpaper.

Making Your Phone Truly Yours

Designing an Android phone is a fantastic and easy way to express some of your personality and individuality within your device. You could apply a very simple wallpaper or go all out with themes, launchers, and icon packs; the options are almost endless. 

Start small by having fun with themes or trying out a new launcher and build up the design of your phone till it fits your style aptly.

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