FAQ
Definitions
*interchangeable definitions of words & terms thrown around on my site
What is an “App Icon” and/or “App Cover”?— is there a difference?
The term either or both “app icon(s)” or “app cover(s)”—and, most relevantly, whenever used on my site here (plus according to any numberless amount of circumstances where I’ve since seen either/or terms used)— refers to a very similar meaning, if not the same thing… in some cases (which would depend how, where, or in what context said term is being used), meaning:1) an app icon— in literally every context— refers to the little square(s) which appear and may wiggle about on the Home Screen of your device(s)’ where you see your various apps displayed. An app icon simply refers to not the app itself— or anything involving any app’s purpose— but refers to what the app’s “button” looks like on your device so that you can find the app and click on it. Usually— if not, always (or almost always)— your app icons will include the name of the app around it (usually in typed text right below the app). For example, when you access your phone and go to it’s Home Page (with all it’s contents and features; after entering your password and/or which would be after passing by the Lock Screen)… you will have a visual of all your apps. You may have just a couple. You may have many. Nowadays, just about all phones and/or it’s associated devices (like, an iPad/tablet, for example) will automatically come preinstalled with some apps for your convenience or, sometimes, simply due to the popularity of certain apps… yes, some phones/devices will include such apps already installed. Needless to say, these little “buttons” (for lack of a better word to otherwise describe the word “icon”— as “icon” is the correct term):
… Is there a difference, then, when someone refers to an “icon” versus “app icon”?
What’s an [iPhone/phone] “Theme”?
In the realm of Schemes&Themes, I tend to consider a “theme” as not only involving a number of intentionally-coordinated app icons (in other words: to include an “[app] icon set”— and to word something as a “set” would not be… at least, hopefully not… just a clump of app icons with somewhat-similar appearances or level of attractiveness, but instead, consist of the same intended creativeness or apart of the same, original inspiration, etc, etc). But, beyond that— beyond an aesthetically “matching” pack of icons— which, to be fair, isn’t necessarily designated to any minimal or maximum number of app icon designs— but, that, a “theme” (at least by my standards)
What’s the difference between a phone “theme” verses a(n) “[app] icon pack” or any number of app icons?” [*this Q may relate to similarly-phrased terms, as well, such as ‘icon set’, etc.]
What does it mean when referring to something as “Aesthetic”— as opposed to ‘an aesthetic’ or ‘the aesthetic’? What does the word “aesthetic” refer to in these circumstances?
In general— and among everyday language; outside of app icons and themes or anything relevant to images on the internet, especially in terms of Pinterest and one of its main purposes— but, again, in “everyday life”: the word “aesthetic” is quite broad in usage— though specific, in overall meaning and in spite of many confusing, English-word, evolving definitions. Essentially, this is a word that describes: “The look— but also the ‘feel’ of that look— of an environment, item, etc. Yet, even beyond that; this is a term, also likely to relate to the attractive appeal of a collective (as opposed to the attractiveness of an item in singularity) or can even be suggestive and demonstrative of a specific, particular style.” (If I were to describe the word “aesthetic” in my own words).
Direct synonyms will usually include words like “décor” or “decorative”; with descriptions which often depict the “style” of something.
“Aesthetic” is both a noun and adjective and is used widely; reaching familiar languages of philosophers to bloggers… or, while using an example I experienced recently (at the time of writing this):
Last weekend, while celebrating a Bachelorette weekend for my sister in Phoenix, Arizona— a Google search happened involving something along the lines of: “How safe is drinking AZ tap water?” Among a plethora of explanations: it was somehow quickly concluded that Arizona drinking water was about the safest and/or no less different than most or all U.S. areas of drinking water— but somewhere, among this brief search, there was mention towards a concern that did not pertain to taste nor serious adverse reactions but may, in times, be one pertaining to the water ‘aesthetic’. (And, of course, I’m paraphrasing and this is based on memory). Needless to say, the way in which this word— “aesthetic”— had been used: the meaning was clear in context (i.e. to represent the appearance of something— in this case, the appearance of the water, which was assumedly anything-but ‘pretty’ in this context, or more representatively, ‘preferable’, in this case)….
But, as a whole; coupled with the importance of context: and still, despite proper usage of the word “aesthetic”; the definition and usage is more often associated with something that is not only of a particular style but can often and even be pinpointed to what is likely widely-recognizable as being “stylish”, “attractive”, “lovely”, “visually pleasing”, etc.
Okay. So, considering this accurately defines the word “aesthetic” alone and of itself….
Buuuuut,
What about in the context of a particular style? Are there not people or sources that refer to an actual and particular style as being “AESTHETIC”?
Yes. THERE ARE.
In all truthfulness, it’s kind of annoying. Or weird. Weird, in the sense that there are literal and frequent apps/sites/platforms that I’ve reoccurring-ly notice that “aesthetic” is referred to as a very specific kind of style and/or a particular usage of a style (and because that’s confusing, an example might be: referring to almost any “style” as “aesthetic” but whilst utilizing images of similar context or color scheme in place of— or as background images— amongst/as the visual appearance of app icons. Also, as someone who is a little-bit-of-a-fan when it comes to correct ‘verbiage’— I, singly, wouldn’t call any particular style or “look” as an “aesthetic” look…. Why? Well, because, technically, any and all “styles” and any tone of any “look” of various designs are, of themself, that particular aesthetic for which is portrayed. In that way, yes, the word “aesthetic” (and the ways in which this word could work correctly in various contexts) can potentially be misleading or misunderstood as to what, exactly, is being referred to… especially when potentially used in slightly different contexts across various apps or other sources.
I’ve noticed, however— (not everywhere— and certainly not always, nor consistently— but in many or some cases): I have noticed the steadily growing use of the word “aesthetic”— at least when pertaining to a broad scope of digital design and all latest app icon designs— and the use of this word referring to any design which incorporates images within its overall appearance. Meaning, the app icons themselves may likely contain images. And each image— regardless of where or how it is used among said “theme”— is likely to be of a similar and/or visually-pleasing and coinciding color scheme and/or other “coinciding” feature(s).
To sum this up, “aesthetic” is likely to refer to a) a specific style— which is more than likely circumstantial to how an app (or other platform) categorizes it as such, and b) “aesthetic” is just as likely to be used in regards to any style and/or of having style… but, even more so, and most relevantly, and in relation to the world of anything-involving-app-icons-and-phone-themes: likely refers to any ‘stylish’ design example which ‘stylishly’ differs— while still being recognizable in terms of the intended function and/or original logo, for example— yet has some sort of “oomph” that just… gently… though attentively… speaks STYLE.
Direct synonyms will usually include words like “décor” or “decorative”; with descriptions which often depict the “style” of something.
“Aesthetic” is both a noun and adjective and is used widely; reaching familiar languages of philosophers to bloggers… or, while using an example I experienced recently (at the time of writing this):
Last weekend, while celebrating a Bachelorette weekend for my sister in Phoenix, Arizona— a Google search happened involving something along the lines of: “How safe is drinking AZ tap water?” Among a plethora of explanations: it was somehow quickly concluded that Arizona drinking water was about the safest and/or no less different than most or all U.S. areas of drinking water— but somewhere, among this brief search, there was mention towards a concern that did not pertain to taste nor serious adverse reactions but may, in times, be one pertaining to the water ‘aesthetic’. (And, of course, I’m paraphrasing and this is based on memory). Needless to say, the way in which this word— “aesthetic”— had been used: the meaning was clear in context (i.e. to represent the appearance of something— in this case, the appearance of the water, which was assumedly anything-but ‘pretty’ in this context, or more representatively, ‘preferable’, in this case)….
But, as a whole; coupled with the importance of context: and still, despite proper usage of the word “aesthetic”; the definition and usage is more often associated with something that is not only of a particular style but can often and even be pinpointed to what is likely widely-recognizable as being “stylish”, “attractive”, “lovely”, “visually pleasing”, etc.
Okay. So, considering this accurately defines the word “aesthetic” alone and of itself….
Buuuuut,
What about in the context of a particular style? Are there not people or sources that refer to an actual and particular style as being “AESTHETIC”?
Yes. THERE ARE.
In all truthfulness, it’s kind of annoying. Or weird. Weird, in the sense that there are literal and frequent apps/sites/platforms that I’ve reoccurring-ly notice that “aesthetic” is referred to as a very specific kind of style and/or a particular usage of a style (and because that’s confusing, an example might be: referring to almost any “style” as “aesthetic” but whilst utilizing images of similar context or color scheme in place of— or as background images— amongst/as the visual appearance of app icons. Also, as someone who is a little-bit-of-a-fan when it comes to correct ‘verbiage’— I, singly, wouldn’t call any particular style or “look” as an “aesthetic” look…. Why? Well, because, technically, any and all “styles” and any tone of any “look” of various designs are, of themself, that particular aesthetic for which is portrayed. In that way, yes, the word “aesthetic” (and the ways in which this word could work correctly in various contexts) can potentially be misleading or misunderstood as to what, exactly, is being referred to… especially when potentially used in slightly different contexts across various apps or other sources.
I’ve noticed, however— (not everywhere— and certainly not always, nor consistently— but in many or some cases): I have noticed the steadily growing use of the word “aesthetic”— at least when pertaining to a broad scope of digital design and all latest app icon designs— and the use of this word referring to any design which incorporates images within its overall appearance. Meaning, the app icons themselves may likely contain images. And each image— regardless of where or how it is used among said “theme”— is likely to be of a similar and/or visually-pleasing and coinciding color scheme and/or other “coinciding” feature(s).
To sum this up, “aesthetic” is likely to refer to a) a specific style— which is more than likely circumstantial to how an app (or other platform) categorizes it as such, and b) “aesthetic” is just as likely to be used in regards to any style and/or of having style… but, even more so, and most relevantly, and in relation to the world of anything-involving-app-icons-and-phone-themes: likely refers to any ‘stylish’ design example which ‘stylishly’ differs— while still being recognizable in terms of the intended function and/or original logo, for example— yet has some sort of “oomph” that just… gently… though attentively… speaks STYLE.
Other FAQ’s
What’s the difference between AUTOMATIC vs. MANUAL installation of a Theme/app icons?
Many apps which involve the same purpose (to acquire unique, “aesthetic*” phone themes / app icon packs) will either a) provide an option to automatically or manually install said “theme” or otherwise likely ‘pack’ of app icons, or b) will only allow the option of “automatic” installation. The only additional option (c) would be to acquire a “theme” or, more accurately, any number of app icons via the means of a site, such as this one, Schemes&Themes, or with personal access to a plethora of design options existing among the web; which, upon access, and the likely action of “download” / “saving-to-photos” would then require the ‘manual’ ‘installation’ of said app icon designs. This, too, pertains, just as much to apps/sites/platforms like Etsy, Creative Market, Dribbble, and so forth, where even any level of purchased design(s)— particularly pertaining to app icons— would require the purchaser’s ability [your ability] to know how to manually install those purchased designs (in this case: app icon designs) to your phone (or other device)’s Home Screen.
First off, I highlight ‘app icon’ [designs] as opposed to tell rms like “phone theme” due to the fact that the feature for changing one’s [background] Wallpaper image(s) for both the Home Screen and Lock Screen image display (particularly referring to any iPhone/Apple devices) has been around, siiiince, basically— or literally— since the creation of the first smart phone(s). The ability to change the image of your wallpaper(s) is a feature not unknown to practically all users— hence, no need to explain further (at least not here… but feel free to learn how: iOS users). Nonetheless, however, ‘choice of wallpaper(s)’ is seen as one of the first, primary steps when it comes to “setting up” or I.e. “installing” a particular “theme.” Wallpaper(s). App Icons. And Widgets. But— by far and large— Installation of App Icons— is what I, or any other source, is likely referring to when it comes to the main aspect of “downloading” / “installing” a “theme.”
In terms of a step-by-step guide on how to manually install either a) app icons or b) widgets— please refer back to the How To [Setup] page… here, on SchemesAndThemes.
To answer the question, however:
Manual installation simply refers to the “do it yourself” route which involves (for iOS) utilizing Apple’s Shortcuts app— an iOS ‘system app’. Automatic installation can and/or is often an available option via the use of (usually paid… but-with-some-free-accessories) apps. Depending on the app(s) used: each app (especially among the several— and more— for which I’ve recommended) is likely, nonetheless, to be very similar from one to the next, in regards to automatic installation. The process is relatively— or often— exactly the same. For which can be thoroughly noted amongst each app (and if not… it’s quite straight forward regardless and safe, from my experience and understanding… depending on how/who/what app you’re utilizing). All ‘automatic downloads’ via the use of such app(s) will include messages which involve language like: “unsigned license.” This doesn’t represent anything even remotely as scary as it might sound from the likes of your iPhone’s automatic message-display. Some, or many, or even all such apps will even go as far as to explain the ins-and-outs and the reasoning as to why this message appears on devices to begin with. It is not representative (necessarily… so don’t quote me on this) of some sort of unsafe, virus-friendly and/or any other scam-like entity, and so forth. I’m just saying: don’t be weary off the bat before reading up on the particular app’s guarantee(s), fine print, and the like. There is no easier way, to put simply, to find a “theme” (or i.e. pack of icons which represent a particular aesthetic of your choosing) and to then be capable of automatically installing such theme (and any number of the available app icons) straight to your Home Screen as opposed to, one-by-one, installing each app icon via Shortcuts.
First off, I highlight ‘app icon’ [designs] as opposed to tell rms like “phone theme” due to the fact that the feature for changing one’s [background] Wallpaper image(s) for both the Home Screen and Lock Screen image display (particularly referring to any iPhone/Apple devices) has been around, siiiince, basically— or literally— since the creation of the first smart phone(s). The ability to change the image of your wallpaper(s) is a feature not unknown to practically all users— hence, no need to explain further (at least not here… but feel free to learn how: iOS users). Nonetheless, however, ‘choice of wallpaper(s)’ is seen as one of the first, primary steps when it comes to “setting up” or I.e. “installing” a particular “theme.” Wallpaper(s). App Icons. And Widgets. But— by far and large— Installation of App Icons— is what I, or any other source, is likely referring to when it comes to the main aspect of “downloading” / “installing” a “theme.”
In terms of a step-by-step guide on how to manually install either a) app icons or b) widgets— please refer back to the How To [Setup] page… here, on SchemesAndThemes.
To answer the question, however:
Manual installation simply refers to the “do it yourself” route which involves (for iOS) utilizing Apple’s Shortcuts app— an iOS ‘system app’. Automatic installation can and/or is often an available option via the use of (usually paid… but-with-some-free-accessories) apps. Depending on the app(s) used: each app (especially among the several— and more— for which I’ve recommended) is likely, nonetheless, to be very similar from one to the next, in regards to automatic installation. The process is relatively— or often— exactly the same. For which can be thoroughly noted amongst each app (and if not… it’s quite straight forward regardless and safe, from my experience and understanding… depending on how/who/what app you’re utilizing). All ‘automatic downloads’ via the use of such app(s) will include messages which involve language like: “unsigned license.” This doesn’t represent anything even remotely as scary as it might sound from the likes of your iPhone’s automatic message-display. Some, or many, or even all such apps will even go as far as to explain the ins-and-outs and the reasoning as to why this message appears on devices to begin with. It is not representative (necessarily… so don’t quote me on this) of some sort of unsafe, virus-friendly and/or any other scam-like entity, and so forth. I’m just saying: don’t be weary off the bat before reading up on the particular app’s guarantee(s), fine print, and the like. There is no easier way, to put simply, to find a “theme” (or i.e. pack of icons which represent a particular aesthetic of your choosing) and to then be capable of automatically installing such theme (and any number of the available app icons) straight to your Home Screen as opposed to, one-by-one, installing each app icon via Shortcuts.