Customizing the home screen on your iOS 17 device is all about making it look and function just the way you like. Whether you prefer a minimalist look with only your most essential apps or a vibrant display filled with widgets and personalized app icons, iOS 17 gives you the tools to create a home screen that’s uniquely yours. In just a few taps, you can rearrange apps, choose new wallpaper, and add widgets that provide quick information at a glance.
Step by Step Tutorial on Customizing the Home Screen on iOS 17
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s understand what these steps will do for you. Customizing your home screen will help you access your favorite apps faster, display information you care about right on your home screen, and of course, make your phone look pretty awesome. Ready to get started?
Step 1: Enter Jiggle Mode
Touch and hold any empty area on your home screen until the apps start to jiggle.
This is how you begin customizing your home screen. Once the apps are jiggling, you can move them around, group them into folders, or remove them from the home screen.
Step 2: Rearrange Apps
Drag and drop apps to rearrange them on your home screen or dock.
You might want to put your most-used apps on the first page or in the dock for easy access. Remember, you can also create folders by dragging one app onto another.
Step 3: Add Widgets
Tap the plus icon in the upper-left corner to add widgets to your home screen.
Widgets are handy tools that show you information without having to open an app. You can choose from a variety of sizes and arrange them among your apps on the home screen.
Step 4: Change Wallpaper
Go into Settings > Wallpaper > Choose a New Wallpaper to select a background for your home screen.
A new wallpaper can completely change the vibe of your home screen. You can choose from Apple’s selection, use one of your photos, or even set live wallpapers that animate.
Step 5: Personalize App Icons
Download the Shortcuts app from the App Store to create custom app icons.
This step is a bit more advanced but can give your home screen a truly unique look. Use the Shortcuts app to create custom icons for your apps that match your wallpaper or aesthetic.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a home screen that’s customized to your liking. Apps will be just where you want them, widgets will provide information at a glance, and your chosen wallpaper will make everything pop. It’s like giving your iPhone a personal touch that reflects your style and needs.
Tips for Customizing the Home Screen on iOS 17
- Experiment with different widget layouts until you find one that suits your needs.
- Use folders to organize apps by category, like ‘Social’, ‘Work’, or ‘Games’.
- Consider the color scheme of your wallpaper when choosing app icons for a cohesive look.
- Regularly update your widgets and apps to keep your home screen feeling fresh.
- Don’t be afraid to change things up! The beauty of customization is that you can always tweak it until it’s perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove an app from my home screen without deleting it?
You can remove an app from the home screen by touching and holding it in jiggle mode and then tapping the minus sign. The app will still be available in the App Library.
Can I use a photo as my wallpaper on iOS 17?
Yes, you can use one of your photos as wallpaper. Just go to Settings > Wallpaper > Choose a New Wallpaper and select the ‘Photos’ option.
How many widgets can I add to my home screen?
You can add as many widgets as you’d like, as long as there’s space on your home screen. Keep in mind that too many widgets may make your home screen look cluttered.
Is it possible to have a different wallpaper on the lock screen and home screen?
Absolutely! iOS 17 allows you to set one wallpaper for your lock screen and a different one for your home screen.
Can I undo the changes if I don’t like my new home screen setup?
Yes, you can always move apps and widgets around, remove them, or change your wallpaper back to the way it was before.
Summary
- Enter Jiggle Mode
- Rearrange Apps
- Add Widgets
- Change Wallpaper
- Personalize App Icons
Conclusion
Customizing the home screen on iOS 17 is a simple yet powerful way to make your iPhone reflect your personality and style. Whether you’re a productivity powerhouse in need of quick access to your most-used apps or a creative soul looking to express yourself through your phone’s aesthetic, the customization options in iOS 17 have got you covered. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to transform your home screen into a space that’s not only visually appealing but also optimizes your daily phone interactions. So go ahead, play around with widgets, experiment with wallpapers, and let your creativity flow—the home screen of your dreams is just a few taps away!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.