### Modifying App Icons in macOS Tahoe: A Comprehensive Guide
macOS Tahoe brings a significant alteration in the presentation of app icons, especially impacting those that do not adhere to Apple’s updated design guidelines. This modification places noncompliant app icons inside a gray box, reducing their prominence and identification. Although this adjustment mainly influences the user experience rather than developers, it has led numerous users to explore ways to alter their app icons for a more visually pleasing interface.
#### The Significance of Customization
A prominent aspect of the Mac ecosystem is its adaptability regarding customization. Users have the ability to substitute default app icons with options that align more with their visual preferences. While this approach is temporary—requiring users to reapply changes following app updates—it can greatly improve the visual consistency of the Dock and overall user satisfaction.
#### Locating Replacement Icons
To start personalizing your app icons, you can delve into various online platforms that provide a broad selection of community-generated icons. One highly regarded site is [macOSicons.com](https://macosicons.com/#/), which features icons that conform to Apple’s squircle criteria. This resource has been particularly beneficial for applications like Chrome and Pixelmator Pro, which have encountered challenges with their icon aesthetics.
Other repositories to explore include [IconArchive](https://www.iconarchive.com) and [DeviantArt](https://www.deviantart.com), both offering extensive collections of icons.
#### Techniques for Substituting App Icons
There are two key approaches for substituting app icons on macOS Tahoe: the conventional method and the persistence method utilizing third-party software.
##### Conventional Method
1. Obtain your replacement icon in either .icns format (Apple’s native format) or .png.
2. Open Finder, find the app, and press Command+I to access the Info panel.
3. Drag the new icon file onto the small icon thumbnail in the top left of the Info panel, or copy and paste it there.
4. Close and reopen the app to view the revised icon.
##### Persistence Method Using Replacicon
1. Download and install [Replacicon](https://replacicon.app) on your Mac.
2. Drag your replacement icon into Replacicon and assign it to the app.
3. Replacicon will automatically reapply your icon after updates, removing the need for manual reapplication.
Another option for ensuring persistent icon changes is [Pictogram](https://pictogramapp.com), which also necessitates initial setup to guarantee icons are displayed properly.
#### Constraints and Advanced Options
While the conventional method is effective for numerous applications, it does not accommodate Apple’s new clear icon mode or dynamic adjustments for light and dark themes. For those interested in more advanced customization, Apple’s complimentary [Icon Composer app](https://developer.apple.com/icon-composer/) may present additional opportunities, though it is geared more towards designers.
#### Final Thoughts
Modifying app icons can reinstate character and clarity to your Mac, particularly considering the changes ushered in by macOS Tahoe. Whether you decide to swap a few icons or entirely revamp your Dock, these techniques and tools facilitate an enhanced user experience. For those who appreciate their customized settings, consider backing up your icons for convenient reapplication in the future.
Feel free to share your favorite custom app icons or resources in the comments below.
