By Emma Reynolds 
A bright new dawn has risen on the iOS horizon, painting the canvas of our iPhone homescreens with the vibrant colors of possibility. The scene-stealer in this beautiful new landscape is iOS 26’s ability to clear homescreen icons, a feature that introduces an unprecedented level of customization.
The magic of this feature lies in its simplicity. The iOS 26 update has not only challenged the orthodox rule of ‘app clutter,’ but also redefined our interaction with the iPhone homescreen. It brings a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality, allowing users to see their favorite wallpaper in its full glory without compromising on app accessibility.
But how does it work? How can you transform your cluttered homescreen into a serene digital landscape? Here’s a step-by-step guide. First, navigate to the settings app on your iPhone, then select ‘Display & Brightness.’ Here, you’ll find a new toggle labeled ‘Clear Icons.’ Switch it on, and voila! The opaque icons will instantly become transparent, revealing the background in all its splendor.
An important point to note, however, is that the icons aren’t completely invisible. They are just transparent enough to blend seamlessly with the wallpaper while still being visible enough to locate and click. This thoughtful design element ensures that functionality isn’t sacrificed at the altar of aesthetics.
What’s more, this feature isn’t limited to the default Apple apps. It extends to all third-party apps as well, offering a harmonious, unified look across the homescreen. So whether it’s the Instagram logo or the Google Maps icon, everything can be set to match your aesthetic preference.
In the realm of smartphone personalization, this feature is a game-changer. It’s a testament to Apple’s commitment to giving users complete control over their device’s appearance. With iOS 26, the power to create a visually pleasing and organized homescreen is quite literally, at our fingertips. So go ahead and clear the clutter. After all, your iPhone is not just a device, it’s an extension of your personality.