Instagram Launches Custom App Icons for Teen Users in Latest Update

Instagram has unveiled a new customization feature allowing teenage users to personalize their app icons, marking Meta's latest effort to enhance engagement with younger audiences. The update, launched October 21, 2025, introduces six distinct visual styles designed specifically for teen accounts, adding to Instagram's evolving visual aesthetic and branding strategy.

New Design Options Reflect Youth Culture

The social media giant partnered with illustrator @doncarrrlos to create a range of aesthetic options including chrome, cosmic, and slime designs. These new icons become available as part of Instagram's broader update to teen account settings, which includes simplified protections aligned with movie ratings.

"We've focused on pushing the boundaries of the logo while creating designs that resonate with our teenage users," Instagram's design team stated. The customization feature can be accessed by pressing the Instagram logo at the top of the home feed after opening the app. This update aligns with Instagram's strategic advantages and limitations for users.

Teen Safety and Personalization

The icon update accompanies more substantial changes to Instagram's teen safety features. This development follows industry trends, similar to Snapchat's successful implementation of custom icons in its premium Snapchat+ package (source: TechCrunch).

Meta's strategy appears to balance aesthetic preferences with enhanced protection measures. The simplified account settings make it easier for teenage users to manage their privacy while expressing their personal style through the platform's visual elements. These changes complement Instagram's growing e-commerce capabilities and features.

Impact and Practical Applications

This update offers several benefits for users and stakeholders:

• Teens can better personalize their social media experience
• Parents can identify Instagram on their children's devices more easily through distinct icons
• Businesses targeting teen audiences gain insights into current youth design preferences

The custom icon feature, while seemingly minor, represents Meta's ongoing efforts to maintain relevance with younger users while addressing safety concerns. For marketers and businesses engaging with teen audiences, these design choices provide valuable insights into current youth preferences and trends.

Implementation Details

Teen users can access these new features immediately through their Instagram accounts, provided they are registered as teen users on the platform. The update includes enhanced privacy controls and simplified navigation for younger users.

Remember: This update is currently limited to teen accounts only and may not be available to general users or business accounts.