Instagram has rolled out a new customisation feature exclusively for Teen Accounts, allowing users to change the app’s home screen icon on their smartphones. The update, which introduces six creative designs, aims to help teens express their personality and aesthetic preferences while offering more control over their Instagram experience.
According to Meta, this latest feature is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital wellbeing and creative self-expression among younger audiences. The feature also reflects Instagram’s broader push to make the platform safer and more personalised for teen users.
Six unique designs for teens to express creativity
Instagram’s Teen Accounts will now have access to six unique app icon designs — Fire, Floral, Chrome, Cosmic, Slime, and others. These icons have been developed in collaboration with illustrator Carlos Oliveras Colom (@doncarrrlos) and the Instagram Design team.
The collaboration was intended to merge youthful creativity with the platform’s evolving visual identity. “I’m honoured that I got trusted to bring some fun to life,” said Colom in a statement shared by Instagram’s design team. “If I was a teen, I’d change that icon every day — either to express what I’m feeling or the vibes I’m setting for the day.”
The Instagram design team described the icons as “a fun, creative new way for teens to personalise their digital space”, encouraging self-expression in line with their daily moods and interests.
How to change the Instagram icon for Teen Accounts
Teen users can easily switch their app icon through the Instagram interface. To do so, they need to:
- Open the Instagram app.
- Tap the Instagram logo at the top of their home screen.
- Select their preferred custom icon design from the available options.
Once selected, the new design will instantly replace the traditional Instagram logo on their phone’s home screen, creating a personalised touch to the app’s appearance.
This feature, available only to Teen Accounts, is part of Meta’s broader strategy to make the app more engaging and visually appealing for younger users while ensuring a sense of ownership over their digital experience.
Encouraging creative and safe online experiences
Instagram has been actively rolling out features focused on teen safety, mental health, and online expression. The platform has previously introduced supervised accounts, time management tools, and privacy controls aimed at protecting young users.
By introducing the custom icon feature, the company hopes to promote positive emotional engagement and creative freedom among its teenage audience. The move also underscores Instagram’s understanding of how personalisation and self-expression play key roles in how young users interact online.
“Exclusively available for Teen Accounts, these customisable app icons are designed to help you express yourself, while you focus on what matters most to you: your friends, the content you care about, and your control over your Instagram experience,” Instagram’s official post read.
Meta’s ongoing teen-focused updates
Meta has increasingly prioritised teen-focused innovation across its platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, with new features centred around digital expression and emotional wellbeing. Recent updates have included tools for managing screen time, safety alerts for sensitive content, and enhanced parental supervision dashboards.
Industry experts believe this strategy not only strengthens Instagram’s connection with younger users but also helps the platform stay competitive against emerging social apps that appeal to Gen Z audiences.
Conclusion
With this latest feature, Instagram is taking a lighter, more creative approach to digital personalisation, while maintaining its commitment to teen safety and control. The collaboration with illustrator Carlos Oliveras Colom adds an authentic artistic touch, ensuring that young users can enjoy a more playful and expressive Instagram experience.