4.2. Icon Trends

The category encompasses a wide range of tools designed to perform specific tasks or enhance the performance and usability of devices. As a result, there are many icon trends that reflect their diverse nature.

The color palette of the Utilities category is also robust, however, it’s not as vibrant as the ones of finance and shopping apps. Calm, soothing colors are more popular.

Minimalism is still a great design choice. Simple and clean icons are common for these apps. Users can quickly identify the app’s purpose without confusion.

To stand out, some apps of the utilities category use 3D effects/gradients on their icons.

Some VPN apps distance themselves from using typical VPN signs, globes, shields, and keys to go for a unique branded look instead:

As phone cleaners get more popular, putting your app into the spotlight can be a tough challenge. While most competitors use brush imagery to denote cleaning, you can also opt for a unique icon without this element and still keep high download rates. Some of these apps incorporate AI themes into their icon design to drive user engagement.

Adding a contrasting ribbon or block with the current year on your icon can enhance relevance and attract users, a technique especially popular among VPN apps and phone cleaners.

The utilities category has become a home for many rising AI chatbot apps. The reason for publishers choosing the category is obvious: utility apps are inherently focused on enhancing user productivity and efficiency, making them a natural fit for AI chatbot apps.

The icons for these apps tend to mimic ChatGPT’s aesthetic. Green icons suggest AI technology. Among alternative colors, black and white are a common choice. On icons, geometry patterns, bots, and the human nervous system are often depicted.

To stand out among other AI apps in the Utilities category, consider these tricks:

• Incorporate gradients.
• Add 3D effects
• Use subtle textures