Android has long been known for its flexibility and customization options, giving users control over the look and feel of their devices. While iOS is catching up in terms of customization, if you’re someone who loves taking full control over the pixel-by-pixel appearance of your phone’s software, Android still reigns supreme.
In this guide, we’ll explore the full range of customization options available on the latest Android versions for Pixel phones (Android 15) and Samsung devices (One UI 6.1.1). If you’re using another Android phone, don’t worry—many of the options we cover are available across various brands, with only slight differences in the menus.
1. Organize Your Home Screen Like a Pro
One of the first places where customization shines on Android is in how you organize your apps. You can completely personalize the layout, and here’s how:
Default App Placement
When you install new apps, they’ll usually show up on your home screen by default. But if you prefer a more streamlined look, you can easily turn this feature off.
- Pixel: Long press on a blank area of the home screen > Home settings > Add app icons to home screen (turn it off).
- Samsung: Open Settings > Home screen > Add new apps to Home screen (toggle off).
Moving Apps Around
To move an app to a new spot:
- Pixel: Tap, hold, and drag the app shortcut to a new location.
- Samsung: Long press the app icon and drag it to your desired position.
Removing Apps Without Deleting Them
Want to remove an app from your home screen but not uninstall it? Here’s how:
- Pixel: Tap and drag the app icon to the “Remove” button at the top of the screen.
- Samsung: Tap and hold on the app icon and select “Remove.”
Creating App Folders
Group related apps by creating folders. Simply drag one app onto another to create a folder. You can also remove apps from folders by dragging them out.
Customizing the App Grid
Each home screen on your Android phone has a grid, but you don’t need to fill every slot. You can also change the size of the grid for a more personalized layout.
- Pixel: Go to Wallpaper & style > Home screen > App grid.
- Samsung: Go to Home screen > Home screen grid.
2. Widgets: The Secret to a Truly Personalized Home Screen
Widgets are one of the most powerful customization tools on Android. They allow you to display information directly on your home screen, like weather updates, calendar events, or even Spotify playlists. Here’s how to get creative with widgets:
Placing and Resizing Widgets
Widgets come in various sizes, and you can place them wherever you want on your home screen.
- Pixel: Long press on a blank area of the home screen > Widgets > Drag your chosen widget into place.
- Samsung: Same process, but with an additional option for resizing some widgets.
Moving Widgets Around
If you want to change the position of a widget, just tap and hold, then drag it to a new spot. For resizable widgets, you’ll see handles around the edges for resizing.
Removing Widgets
Removing widgets is simple:
- Pixel: Tap and drag the widget to “Remove.”
- Samsung: Tap and hold the widget > Remove.
Samsung Exclusive: Widget Stacks
One of the standout features on Samsung phones is the ability to stack widgets. You can place multiple widgets on top of each other in a single spot and swipe between them.
- To create a stack: Long press on a widget > Select “Create stack.”
- To edit an existing stack: Long press on a stacked widget and choose “Edit stack.”
3. Wallpapers and Color Themes: Set the Mood
Your phone’s background and color scheme are the foundation of your device’s look. Both Pixel and Samsung phones offer a variety of customization options to make these elements truly your own.
On Pixel Devices
- Wallpaper & Style: Head to Settings > Wallpaper & style.
- You can choose different wallpapers for your lock screen and home screen.
- Color Palette: Select a color theme that matches or contrasts with your wallpaper. You can even customize your icons with a matching shade (although this is still in beta).
On Samsung Devices
- Wallpaper & Style: In Settings > Wallpaper & style, you can choose from a vast selection of wallpapers.
- Themes: Samsung offers a full set of themes (wallpapers, icons, color schemes) available from the “Themes” menu. Some are free, while others are premium.
4. Text Size and Display Customization
Android also lets you adjust how content appears on your screen, making it more readable and tailored to your needs.
Adjusting Text and Display Size
Want larger text or a bigger interface? Both Pixel and Samsung phones let you customize the size of text and on-screen elements:
- Pixel: Go to Settings > Display > Display size and text.
- Samsung: Go to Settings > Display > Font size and style.
Dark Mode
If you prefer a darker interface, dark mode is available on both Pixel and Samsung devices. You can even schedule it to turn on and off automatically, depending on the time of day.
- Pixel: Settings > Display > Dark theme.
- Samsung: Settings > Display > Dark mode.
5. Third-Party Launchers: The Ultimate Customization Tool
For users who want to completely transform the look and feel of their phone, third-party launchers are the way to go. These apps replace your default home screen experience and give you even more options.
Popular Launchers
- Nova Launcher: A classic option that allows you to completely overhaul your home screen with features like icon packs, grid adjustments, and more.
- Smart Launcher: Another popular choice with a focus on minimalist design and easy-to-access app management.
Switching Between Launchers
Switching launchers is simple:
- Pixel: Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps > Home app.
- Samsung: Go to Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > Home app.
Conclusion
Android’s customization options let you design your phone exactly how you want it, from the home screen layout to deep visual changes. Whether you’re adjusting app icons, stacking widgets, or exploring new third-party launchers, there’s no limit to how you can make your device feel uniquely yours. Experiment with these options to truly make your Android experience one-of-a-kind!
Final Thoughts
Whether you have a Pixel or a Samsung device, the customization options are plentiful and flexible. Don’t hesitate to dive into the settings and get creative—your phone is more than just a tool; it’s a personal expression of style.
