When a logo sits on millions of users' home screens, you can bet that not even the slightest change will go unnoticed. Instagram appears to have rolled out a slightly updated icon design – and it seems some users are, just like The Weeknd, blinded by the lights.
It looks like the Meta-owned app's new icon is essentially a brighter version of the previous design, with the vibrancy of the gradient behind the logo turned up a notch (or three). But some users – and some smartphones – aren't handling the change well. Looking for logo inspiration? Check out the best logos of all time.
Old (left) vs new (right) (Image credit: Instagram/Future owns)
"I'm going to have to reduce my screen brightness for that," one Twitter user complains, while another adds, "New Instagram icon is way over-saturated. Gross." And lots have users have shared screen recordings of iOS seeming to struggle with the new icon – when closing the app, the icon appears to judder between the old and new design.
why is the new instagram logo so bright... like how am i supposed to see my friends pics if the app icon blinds me firstMay 16, 2022
what the hell happened to the instagram iconwhy are the colors oversaturated now (left is the new icon) pic.twitter.com/N3DiQGmEBGMay 16, 2022
gonna take a while to get used to Instagram’s new app iconsaw this on IG for Android a while ago and thought something’s wrong with my phone’s display or that I’m going crazy :P pic.twitter.com/T7w3bVsK9zMay 16, 2022
Indeed, while the original iteration of the gradient logo seemed hugely vibrant back in 2016, it looks positively restrained next to the new version. I shudder to think how saturated the 2028 version is going to look.
Still, it's hardly the most dramatic – or indeed worst – new app icon we've seen in recent months. At least it doesn't resemble Hitler – looking at you, Amazon. But if you're looking for the best of the bunch, check out our list of the best iOS app icon designs.
Daniel John is Senior News Editor at Creative Bloq. He reports on the worlds of art, design, branding and lifestyle tech (which often translates to tech made by Apple). He joined in 2020 after working in copywriting and digital marketing with brands including ITV, NBC, Channel 4 and more.
