icon redesign Archives

Winsage

November 21, 2025

We used to be a society (with a good Windows Task Manager icon)

Microsoft has made changes to its Task Manager, including addressing a bug that allowed it to function with unusual persistence. The Task Manager icon has been redesigned to align with Windows 11's aesthetic, featuring an abstract design that has drawn criticism for lacking clarity compared to the previous straightforward light blue line graph. Users have expressed frustration over the new icon, which resembles vague imagery rather than a clear performance indicator. There is a nostalgic fondness for the original Task Manager icon from the Windows 2000 and XP era, which effectively communicated its purpose.

AppWizard

October 9, 2025

Pixel Watch app update adds new icon, more M3 Expressive

Google has released an update for the Pixel Watch app for Android devices, version 4.1.0.810754319, in preparation for the Pixel Watch 4 launch. The update includes a redesigned homescreen icon that features a more photorealistic design with pill-shaped hour and minute hands, using a blue and purple color palette. Additionally, the app introduces a story-like carousel at the top of the main feed to guide users through features like Fitbit and Wallet, along with enhanced second-level menus and an updated Tiles screen that incorporate Material 3 Expressive design elements.

AppWizard

August 16, 2024

It’s subtle, but it’s there: Google tests design change for the Android YouTube app

YouTube is updating its interface with several changes aimed at improving user experience. The "Home" icon will be redesigned with an expanded roof for better balance, the "Plus" button will change from a white circular design, and the "Subscriptions" icon will simplify by reducing horizontal lines from two to one. The bottom bar will transition from a translucent quality to a blurry effect with splotches of white, although details for Light mode are unclear and the update is currently limited to a small group of Android users. Additionally, some subscribers will test a feature that integrates long-form video recommendations into the YouTube Shorts feed.