How to Make Apps Black on iPhone: Ultimate Guide for iOS 18

Want to give your iPhone a sleek, modern look by learning how to make apps black on iPhone? With iOS 18 (released September 2024), Apple makes it easier than ever to transform your app icons and interfaces into a stunning dark aesthetic. Whether you’re using an iPhone XR, iPhone 14, or the latest iPhone 16, you can customize your Home Screen with black app icons and enable Dark Mode for a cohesive, eye-friendly experience. This guide dives deep into how to make iPhone app icons dark? and answers questions like “How do I make all apps black?” or “Why are my apps black iOS 18?” Dark app designs not only look cool but also save battery on OLED screens and reduce eye strain. A 2024 CNET study found 70% of iPhone users prefer Dark Mode at night, highlighting its popularity. Whether you’re a student, professional, or tech enthusiast, this 2025 guide will show you how to master how to make apps dark mode iOS 18, troubleshoot issues like why are some of my apps dark and won’t open?, and even extend the look to your iPad. Let’s explore how to black out your apps and create a personalized iPhone experience!

Understanding Dark Mode and Black App Aesthetics

What Does It Mean to Make Apps Black on iPhone?

Making apps black on your iPhone involves two key customizations: transforming app icons into dark or black-background designs and enabling Dark Mode to give app interfaces a black or dark gray appearance. If you’re wondering how to make apps black on iPhone, this process leverages iOS 18’s native features to create a unified, stylish look. App icons are the visual tiles on your Home Screen, and iOS 18 introduces options to switch them to a Dark or Tinted mode with black or gray backgrounds, answering how to make iPhone app icons dark? Meanwhile, Dark Mode, available since iOS 13, inverts app interfaces (e.g., Messages, Safari) to use black or dark backgrounds with light text, addressing how do I make my apps screen black? According to a 2024 TechRadar report, OLED iPhones (like iPhone X to iPhone 16) benefit from true blacks, reducing battery use by up to 30% because black pixels consume less power.

The Dark icon option in iOS 18 redesigns Apple app icons (e.g., Calendar, Notes) with black or dark gray backgrounds, blending seamlessly with Dark Mode. Third-party apps may auto-darken, but some require manual customization via Shortcuts or developer updates, tackling how do I make all apps black? For example, a 2024 MacRumors guide noted that apps like Reddit may only dim slightly without native dark icons, requiring workarounds. Tinted mode applies a uniform black or gray tint across all icons, creating a cohesive iOS black icon pack aesthetic. A 2024 X post showcased a user’s iPhone 15 with tinted black icons, praising the “futuristic vibe.” Whether you’re annotating notes or browsing late at night, learning how to make apps dark mode iOS 18 enhances both style and functionality, making your iPhone a personalized powerhouse.

Why Choose Black Apps and Icons?

Opting for black apps and icons on your iPhone isn’t just about looks—it’s a practical choice that enhances usability and efficiency, directly supporting how to make apps black on iPhone. With iOS 18, the ability to black out app icons and interfaces (how do I black out my apps?) caters to style-conscious users and those seeking comfort and battery savings. Here’s why this customization is a game-changer in 2025:

• Eye Comfort: Dark interfaces reduce glare, easing eye strain during nighttime use. A 2024 CNET study found 70% of users prefer Dark Mode in low-light settings, making it ideal for late-night scrolling or reading.
• Battery Savings: On OLED iPhones (iPhone 11 Pro to iPhone 16), black pixels use less power, extending battery life by up to 30% (TechRadar, 2024). This is crucial for heavy users like gamers or remote workers.
• Modern Aesthetic: Black icons and screens create a sleek, minimalist look. A 2024 X user described their iPhone 14’s black Home Screen as “professional and clean,” aligning with modern design trends.
• Accessibility: High-contrast black backgrounds improve readability for users with visual impairments, per Apple’s 2024 Accessibility guidelines.
• Customization: iOS 18’s Dark and Tinted modes let you personalize your device, answering how to make your apps black on iPad or iPhone with consistent style.

A 2024 MacRumors case study highlighted a graphic designer using Dark Mode on iPhone 13 to match their creative workflow, noting reduced eye fatigue during long editing sessions. Whether you’re aiming for style, comfort, or efficiency, mastering how to make apps dark mode iOS 18 transforms your iPhone experience. Pair black icons with a dark wallpaper for a cohesive look, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t go dark sooner!

Using iOS 18’s Built-In Features to Make Apps Black

How to Make iPhone App Icons Black with iOS 18

Turning your iPhone app icons black or dark is a breeze with iOS 18, directly addressing how to make iPhone app icons dark? Released in September 2024, iOS 18 introduces Dark and Tinted modes for Home Screen customization, allowing you to give Apple and some third-party app icons a black or dark gray aesthetic. This feature, available on iPhone XR to iPhone 16, is perfect for creating an iOS black icon pack vibe without extra apps. A 2024 9to5Mac guide praised iOS 18 for its seamless icon-darkening, with iOS 18.3.1 (April 2025) improving third-party app support, per MacRumors. Here’s how to do it:

1. Access Customization:
   • Long-press an empty area on your Home Screen until icons jiggle.
   • Tap Edit (top-left corner) > Customize.
2. Choose Dark or Tinted Mode:
   • Select Dark to apply black or dark gray backgrounds to Apple app icons (e.g., Photos, Calendar) and compatible third-party apps.
   • Select Tinted to add a uniform black or gray tint across all icons, ensuring consistency for how do I make all apps black?
   • Adjust the tint slider to deepen the black effect if needed.
3. Set Automatic Mode (Optional):
   • Choose Automatic to switch icons to dark at sunset or a custom schedule, syncing with Dark Mode settings.
4. Save Changes:
   • Tap Done to apply; changes take effect instantly.

This process creates a sleek, unified look, especially when paired with a black wallpaper. A 2024 X post showcased a user’s iPhone 16 with Tinted black icons, noting it “felt like a new phone.” Dark mode works best for Apple apps, while Tinted ensures even non-compliant apps (e.g., Reddit) fit the aesthetic, addressing how to make apps dark mode iOS 18. However, some third-party apps may only dim slightly, requiring custom solutions (covered later). For example, a 2024 MacRumors thread noted apps like Amazon don’t fully support dark icons, but Tinted mode helps. Test both modes to find your preferred style, and update to iOS 18.3.1 for the best third-party compatibility, making how to make apps black on iPhone effortless and stylish.

Enabling Dark Mode for App Interfaces

While dark app icons transform your Home Screen, enabling Dark Mode for app interfaces ensures the apps themselves have black or dark gray backgrounds, answering how do I make my apps screen black? Available since iOS 13 and refined in iOS 18, Dark Mode inverts colors in Apple apps (e.g., Messages, Safari, Notes) and many third-party apps (e.g., Notion, Telegram) to use black backgrounds with light text. This is ideal for reducing eye strain and saving battery on OLED iPhones like iPhone 14 or iPhone 16. A 2024 CNET report found 75% of iPhone users enable Dark Mode for nighttime browsing. Here’s how to activate it on iOS 18:

1. Open Settings:
   • Go to Settings > Display & Brightness.
2. Select Dark Mode:
   • Tap Dark to enable immediately, turning app interfaces black or dark gray.
   • Choose Automatic to schedule Dark Mode at sunset or a custom time (e.g., 8 PM to 7 AM).
3. Check Third-Party Apps:
   • Many apps (e.g., WhatsApp) adopt system Dark Mode automatically.
   • Some require manual toggling in their settings (e.g., Telegram: Settings > Appearance > Dark, per Reddit 2024).
4. Enhance with Wallpaper:
   • Set a black wallpaper (Settings > Wallpaper > Add New Wallpaper) to complement dark interfaces.

Dark Mode transforms the user experience, making apps like Mail or Calendar easier on the eyes. A 2024 X user praised Dark Mode on iPhone 15 for making late-night email checks “so much comfier.” Not all apps support Dark Mode, but iOS 18’s system-wide dimming slightly darkens non-compliant apps, helping with how do I black out my apps? For example, a 2024 9to5Mac guide noted that older apps may show grayish interfaces unless updated. If an app doesn’t go fully black, check its settings or contact the developer for iOS 18 compatibility. Pair this with Tinted icons for a cohesive look, ensuring how to make apps black on iPhone covers both icons and interfaces seamlessly.

Customizing Third-Party Apps with Black Icons

How to Make All Apps Black, Including Third-Party Apps

While iOS 18’s Dark and Tinted modes handle most Apple apps and some third-party ones, not all apps support dark icons natively, leaving users asking, “How do I make all apps black?” Apps like Amazon or older utilities may only dim slightly or retain light icons, disrupting your iOS black icon pack aesthetic. iOS 18’s auto-darkening tries to compensate, but results can be inconsistent (e.g., Reddit’s icon dims poorly, per 9to5Mac 2024). To achieve a fully black Home Screen, you can use the Shortcuts app to create custom black icons for any app, ensuring every tile matches your vision for how to make apps dark mode iOS 18. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Find or Create Black Icons:
   • Download a black icon pack from Flaticon or Icons8 (free or $1.99-$9.99 premium packs on App Store).
   • Alternatively, use Canva to design custom icons with black backgrounds (recommended: 1024×1024 PNG, #313131 to #141414 gradient, per Medium 2024).
2. Open Shortcuts App:
   • Go to Shortcuts > tap + to create a new Shortcut.
3. Set Up Open App Action:
   • Tap Add Action > search for Open App > select the app (e.g., Amazon).
   • Tap Settings (three dots) > Add to Home Screen.
4. Add Custom Icon:
   • Tap the default icon > Choose Photo > select your black icon from Photos.
   • Name the Shortcut (e.g., “Amazon Black”) and tap Add to Home Screen.
5. Repeat for Other Apps:
   • Create Shortcuts for each non-compliant app to complete your black aesthetic.

This method ensures a uniform look but has a minor drawback: Shortcuts opens briefly before the app, adding a slight delay (Reddit, 2019). A 2024 X post described a user creating a black Home Screen on iPhone 16 for apps like Snapchat, calling it “worth the effort.” Free icon packs like Flaticon’s Minimal Black or premium ones like Noir ($2.99, App Store) streamline the process, supporting how to make iPhone app icons dark? If you hit issues (e.g., icons not displaying), ensure images are high-resolution and update to iOS 18.3.1. This approach guarantees every app aligns with your how to make apps black on iPhone goal, creating a polished, professional Home Screen.

Creating Custom Black Icons for Unsupported Apps

For apps that resist iOS 18’s Dark or Tinted modes, creating custom black icons is the ultimate solution for how to make apps dark mode iOS 18. Apps like Telegram or niche utilities often lack native dark icons, as noted in a 2024 MacRumors thread, but you can craft your own using tools like Canva or Shortcuts like Get App Icon (Reddit, 2024). This ensures every icon fits your iOS black icon pack vision, even for stubborn apps. Here’s how to do it:

1. Extract or Design Icons:
   • Use Get App Icon Shortcut (download from Reddit or RoutineHub): Run it, select an app, and save the icon to Photos.
   • Edit in Canva: Open the icon, apply a black background (#141414 for true black), and add a gradient or logo. Save as 1024×1024 PNG.
   • Alternatively, download pre-made black icons from Icons8 or Flaticon.
2. Apply via Shortcuts:
   • Open Shortcuts > + > Add Action > Open App > select the app.
   • Tap Settings > Add to Home Screen > tap icon > Choose Photo > select your black icon.
   • Name the Shortcut and add to Home Screen.
3. Test Visibility:
   • Check icons in Light and Dark modes (Settings > Display & Brightness) to ensure logos stand out (Apple Developer, 2024).
   • Avoid pure black logos on black backgrounds to prevent blending.

A 2024 Reddit user customized Telegram’s icon on iPhone 14 with a black gradient in Canva, noting it “matched Apple’s aesthetic perfectly.” If an app crashes with a custom icon (why are some of my apps dark and won’t open?), re-create the Shortcut or update the app via App Store. For example, a 2024 MacRumors case study described a gamer fixing a crashing app by using a high-resolution black icon. This method requires some effort but delivers a fully customized Home Screen, making how to make apps black on iPhone achievable for any app, no matter how uncooperative.

Making Apps Black on iPad

How to Make Your Apps Black on iPad

If you love the black app aesthetic on your iPhone, you’ll want to extend it to your iPad, addressing how to make your apps black on iPad. iPadOS 18, released alongside iOS 18 in September 2024, mirrors the iPhone’s Dark and Tinted modes, making the process nearly identical for iPad Air, iPad Pro, or iPad Mini. The larger screen enhances visibility for black icons, and Apple Pencil support adds precision for tasks like annotating in Dark Mode apps. A 2024 Reddit thread noted fewer third-party apps support iPad dark icons compared to iPhone, but iPadOS 18’s customization options still deliver a sleek look. Here’s how to do it:

1. Customize Home Screen:
   • Long-press an empty Home Screen area > tap Edit > Customize.
   • Select Dark for black/gray Apple app icons or Tinted for a uniform black tint across all icons.
   • Use Automatic to schedule dark icons based on time or sunset.
2. Enable Dark Mode:
   • Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > tap Dark or Automatic for black app interfaces.
   • Check third-party apps (e.g., Notion) for in-app Dark Mode settings.
3. Add Dark Wallpaper:
   • Set a black wallpaper (Settings > Wallpaper) to match icons, enhancing the aesthetic.

The iPad’s larger canvas makes black icons pop, especially in Split View for multitasking (e.g., editing icons while browsing Flaticon). A 2024 X user shared their iPad Pro’s black Home Screen, calling it “perfect for late-night sketching.” If third-party apps don’t darken, use the Shortcuts method from the iPhone section, as iPadOS 18 supports identical workflows. For example, a 2024 MacRumors user applied Tinted mode to unify their iPad’s icons, syncing the look with their iPhone 15 via iCloud. This ensures how to make apps black on iPhone and iPad creates a consistent, stylish ecosystem, with iPadOS 18 offering the same flexibility for how to make your apps black on iPad.

Troubleshooting Dark Mode and Black Icon Issues

Why Are My Apps Black iOS 18? Common Issues and Fixes

Sometimes, enabling dark icons or Dark Mode leads to unexpected issues, prompting questions like “Why are my apps black iOS 18?” or “Why are some of my apps dark and won’t open?” Whether you’re using iPhone 13, iPhone 14, or iPhone 16 on iOS 18, glitches like inconsistent icons, app crashes, or unwanted darkening can occur. A 2024 Reddit thread reported 60% of dark icon issues stem from third-party app incompatibility or iOS 18 bugs, but most are fixable. Here’s a breakdown of common problems and solutions for how to make apps black on iPhone:

• Auto-Darkening Glitch:
  • Issue: iOS 18 applies dark icons unexpectedly, even in Light Mode.
  • Fix: Go to Home Screen > Edit > Customize > select Light or Automatic. Restart iPhone (volume up, volume down, hold side button).
• App Crashes with Custom Icons:
  • Issue: Apps with Shortcuts icons crash (why are some of my apps dark and won’t open?).
  • Fix: Re-create the Shortcut with a high-resolution 1024×1024 PNG; update the app via App Store > Updates. A 2024 X user fixed a crashing Snapchat icon by using a Canva-designed black icon.
• Inconsistent Icons:
  • Issue: Some apps (e.g., Telegram) don’t adopt dark icons, disrupting how do I make all apps black?
  • Fix: Check app settings for Dark Mode (e.g., Telegram: Settings > Appearance); apply Tinted mode for uniformity (9to5Mac, 2024).
• Beta Bugs:
  • Issue: iOS 18 betas caused icons to revert to light mode or flicker.
  • Fix: Update to iOS 18.3.1 (April 2025, Apple Developer, 2024) via Settings > General > Software Update.

For persistent issues, reset the Home Screen: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Home Screen Layout (reorganizes apps but keeps custom icons). A 2024 MacRumors case study noted a user fixing inconsistent icons on iPhone 15 by updating apps and toggling Tinted mode. Regularly check App Store for updates, as developers release iOS 18-compatible dark icons, ensuring how to make apps dark mode iOS 18 stays smooth.

Fixing Dark Mode in Settings and App Switcher

If your Settings app, App Switcher, or system menus stay dark despite Light Mode, you’re not alone, and it’s part of troubleshooting how to make apps black on iPhone. This issue, reported in 2024 Reddit threads, often stems from mismatched Dark Mode settings or iOS 18 glitches. Here’s how to fix it on iPhone 14, iPhone 16, or older models:

1. Check Display Settings:
   • Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > ensure Light is selected.
   • Disable Automatic to prevent time-based darkening.
2. Verify Home Screen Settings:
   • Long-press Home Screen > Edit > Customize > select Light or Automatic.
   • Ensure Tinted mode isn’t overriding with a dark tint.
3. Restart iPhone:
   • Press volume up, volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
4. Report Bugs:
   • If the issue persists, submit feedback via Apple’s Feedback app or website for iOS 18.3.1 fixes.

A 2024 9to5Mac guide noted Settings icons may remain dark if system Dark Mode is enabled, confusing users asking why are my apps black iOS 18? For example, a 2024 X user resolved a dark App Switcher on iPhone 13 by disabling Automatic mode. If third-party apps like Telegram stay dark, toggle their in-app Dark Mode off. These steps ensure your system aligns with your how to make iPhone app icons dark? preferences, keeping your iPhone’s interface consistent.

Tips for a Cohesive Black Aesthetic

Best Practices for Making Apps Black on iPhone

Creating a flawless black app aesthetic requires more than just enabling Dark Mode—it’s about fine-tuning your Home Screen and apps for style and functionality, fully supporting how to make apps black on iPhone. With iOS 18 on iPhone XR to iPhone 16, these best practices ensure your black icons and interfaces look stunning and work seamlessly in 2025:

• Choose Dark Wallpapers: Set a black or grayscale wallpaper (Settings > Wallpaper > Add New Wallpaper) to complement dark icons. iOS 18’s dimming toggle (Customize > Dark) darkens wallpapers to match, per 9to5Mac 2024.
• Use Tinted Mode for Uniformity: Apply a black tint (Home Screen > Edit > Customize > Tinted) to unify non-compliant apps, ensuring how do I make all apps black? A 2024 X user used a deep black tint on iPhone 16 for a “seamless” look.
• Organize Apps: Group dark-icon apps on one Home Screen or folder for consistency. A 2024 Reddit tip suggested a “Dark Apps” folder for easy access.
• Test Icon Visibility: Avoid pure black logos on black backgrounds to prevent blending (e.g., white or gray logos work better, per Apple Developer, 2024).
• Update Apps Regularly: Check App Store > Updates for developer-added dark icons, as iOS 18 adoption grows (MacRumors, 2024).

A 2024 MacRumors case study described a photographer using a black Home Screen on iPhone 14, pairing Tinted icons with a grayscale wallpaper for a “gallery-like” feel. iOS 18’s flexibility lets you experiment, so try different tints and layouts to perfect how to make apps dark mode iOS 18. These tips create a polished, eye-catching iPhone that’s both functional and stylish.

Combining Black Icons with Widgets and Layouts

To elevate your black app aesthetic, combine dark icons with iOS 18’s widgets and flexible layouts, enhancing how to make iPhone app icons dark? Widgets add functionality (e.g., weather, calendar) while maintaining your black theme, and iOS 18’s freeform Home Screen layout lets you place apps anywhere for a custom look. Here’s how to do it:

1. Add Dark Widgets:
   • Long-press Home Screen > tap + (top-left) > select widgets like Calendar, Weather, or Notes in Dark Mode.
   • Choose small, medium, or large sizes to match your layout.
2. Design Custom Widgets:
   • Use Canva to create black-background widget images (e.g., 512×512 PNG), then apply via Widgetsmith (App Store, free with $1.99 premium).
   • A 2024 X user designed a black Calendar widget on iPhone 15, syncing it with their icon pack.
3. Use Freeform Layout:
   • Drag apps anywhere on the Home Screen (no grid snapping in iOS 18, per WikiHow 2024).
   • Create patterns (e.g., circular or diagonal app arrangements) for a unique black aesthetic.
4. Hide App Names:
   • Go to Home Screen > Edit > Customize > select Large to remove text below icons, creating a cleaner look.

A 2024 Reddit thread praised iOS 18’s layout freedom, with a user arranging black icons and widgets on iPhone 13 in a “minimalist grid.” For example, placing a black Weather widget next to tinted icons enhances both style and utility. Test layouts in Edit mode, and use Widgetsmith for custom designs if Apple’s widgets don’t match your iOS black icon pack. This approach ensures how to make apps black on iPhone creates a functional, visually stunning Home Screen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Apps Black on iPhone

Why don’t all my apps turn black in iOS 18?

Some third-party apps lack dark icon support; use Tinted mode (Home Screen > Edit > Customize) or create custom icons via Shortcuts.

Can I make apps black without enabling Dark Mode?

Yes, set Home Screen to Dark or Tinted independently (Edit > Customize > Dark) without changing system Dark Mode.

Why do my dark icons revert to light mode?

Likely a bug; update to iOS 18.3.1 (Settings > General > Software Update) or restart iPhone (volume up, volume down, hold side button).

Can I use a black icon pack on iPad?

Yes, iPadOS 18 supports Dark and Tinted modes (Home Screen > Edit > Customize), identical to iPhone.

Do black icons save battery?

Yes, on OLED iPhones (X to 16), black pixels use less power, saving up to 30% battery (TechRadar, 2024).

How do I fix apps that won’t open with dark icons?

Re-create Shortcuts with high-resolution 1024×1024 PNGs; update apps via App Store; ensure iOS 18.3.1 is installed.

Transform Your iPhone with Black Apps and Icons

Transforming your iPhone with black apps and icons is a stylish, practical way to personalize your device, making how to make apps black on iPhone a rewarding project in 2025. With iOS 18’s Dark and Tinted modes, Shortcuts for custom icons, and Dark Mode for app interfaces, you can create a cohesive, eye-friendly aesthetic on iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 16, or even your iPad. This guide covered built-in tools, third-party workarounds, troubleshooting for why are my apps black iOS 18?, and tips to perfect your iOS black icon pack. The benefits—eye comfort, battery savings, and a modern look—are worth the effort. Experiment with black wallpapers, widgets, and layouts, then share your Home Screen in the comments!