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The app icon is the first and the foremost representation of the app. The user should be able to instantly identify and recall the app and its key features by looking at the app icon. It is the first impression of the app for prospective users.
The user sees the app icon on the home screen, in the app store, in the status, and on all of the app's visual marketing. The App icon acts as the app’s voice every time and everywhere. App store discovery accounts for 70% of app downloads, so the app icon is also a critical promotional element that can influence the success of the app store optimization strategy.
Choose a bold and unique shape – Let your app icon stand out from the crowd. Pick a shape that also incorporates the app's functionality in the design. Spotify is the best example of this. Select a simple yet bold design which is easily recognizable by the app visitor. Use a background that matches the app's brand value.
Use the image wisely – Although it is better to avoid using images in the app icon, use one only if the image conveys the brand’s functionality and gets instant recognition in the user's mind. You can also create an illustration of the image that is aligned with the app's feature. As a result, the app icon becomes attractive and easily comprehendible by the user.
Play safe with color and effects in the app icon – Using contrasting colors is the secret to grab the user's attention. Do not use more than three colors. The lesser the colors and the details, the simpler and more attractive the app icon will look. The Snapchat icon is an excellent example of an app icon with simple colors and a distinct design. It is ideal for matching the color palette on the app page with the colors in the app icon.
Avoid using words in the app icon – As keen as you are to showcase every detail about the app in the app icon, it is wise not to. Because the app icon is a small visual element on the user's mobile, it is almost impossible to read a message in that small space. Instead, you can use a single letter from the app's name and display it as an attractive design in the app icon. The best example of this is Facebook.
Use a border for the app icon – A contrasting color in the borders can help the user focus on the app icon's content. It can also make your app stand out among other app icons. You can also add mild visual effects for a more impressive view. Make sure it is of the right size that will adapt to different mobile devices.
Learn from your competitors - You can closely watch the successful app icon themes used by your competitors. This can help you understand the popular color palettes used and the themes and designs in their app icons. And you can choose or create a distinct symbol to impress the target audience.
Create multiple app icon designs and select the one that best suits the app's brand image. Then, run a preview of the app icon. This is important because different users use different mobile backgrounds. Your app must be recognizable in them all and readable. An A/B test will signal the response of the users and will help you update or re-design to suit the expectations of the app visitors.
A thorough analysis is essential before creating your app icon. The target audience, the recent trends, the best practices, and the app's features all are to be be considered carefully to design an app icon. Remember, an app icon is a gateway to your app, like an invitation to the user. Therefore, ensure the guidelines are followed in creating an impressive app icon to gain more app traffic and visibility.
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