Facebook Icon on iPhones Turns Black Due to Glitch, Users Demand Return to Original
4 min read
In recent days, iPhone users have been perplexed by an unexpected change in the appearance of their Facebook app icon. Traditionally known for its distinctive blue hue, the Facebook icon mysteriously turned black for many iPhone users, leading to widespread confusion and frustration. The sudden change, which occurred without warning, sparked a flurry of speculation and concern among users who took to social media to express their dismay.
The Glitch and Meta’s Response
On August 30, reports emerged from various iPhone users who noticed the Facebook icon on their devices had inexplicably changed color. The icon, which typically features Facebook’s signature blue background, was now appearing in a stark black shade on their home screens. This unexpected alteration left many wondering whether Facebook had rolled out a new design or if it was simply a bug.
Anyone else updated the @Facebook app lately on iOS 17 and got a dark app icon like this? #iOS #DarkMode pic.twitter.com/zqApxVzpk7
— HarrisonDanOfficial (@HarrisonDanOFF) August 29, 2024
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, quickly addressed the situation. In a statement provided to Business Insider, Meta’s communications manager, Dave Arnold, clarified that the black icon was not an intentional update but rather the result of a technical glitch. “This was caused by a technical issue and has been resolved. People will see the fix when they update their app,” Arnold explained.
The issue primarily affected iPhone users, though some speculated that Android users might also encounter similar problems. Despite Meta’s prompt response, the glitch left many users puzzled and frustrated, with some expressing relief once the app was updated and the familiar blue icon was restored.
is it just me or did Facebook iOS app change color??? pic.twitter.com/RyuoYQn4sK
— jahš¢ (@jah_mullens) August 28, 2024
Social Media Reactions: Confusion and Criticism
The unexpected color change sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with users sharing their experiences and opinions. Many were bewildered by the sudden shift, especially those who frequently switch between light and dark mode on their devices. One user tweeted, “Did anyone elseās Facebook icon just randomly change to this dark mode on their iPhone? Iām not on iOS 18 either, but I do transition from light to dark mode depending on time of day. No restarting the app and phone didnāt fix it haha.”
Who decided this new color scheme for the #Facebook iOS app was a good idea? It looks terrible! Such an eye sore! š pic.twitter.com/VafYV5iSLG
— freddielm (@freddielm) August 29, 2024
Others were more critical of the black icon, with one user commenting, “Facebook has a new iOS icon. It looks terrible.” Another expressed their dislike more bluntly, stating, “I donāt like the new Facebook app icon on iOS. Ewww.”
Several users speculated that the black icon might be linked to an experimental dark mode feature or a bug within the app. “Did Facebook temporarily change its icon to dark mode, or was it a bug? After updating, it returned to normal! I donāt have iOS 18, still on 17.1 stock, how did that happen?” one user questioned.
Facebook has a new iOS icon. It looks terrible. pic.twitter.com/BD7GruBswc
— Tom (@Cazenn_) August 30, 2024Advertisement
The Broader Impact of Technical Glitches
While the issue has now been resolved, the incident highlights how even minor technical glitches can have a significant impact on user experience and brand perception. The Facebook icon is not just a simple image on a screen; it’s a recognizable symbol of the app’s identity. Any sudden change, especially one that occurs without explanation, can lead to confusion and concern among users.
For many, the return of the familiar blue icon was a welcome relief, but the glitch also served as a reminder of how closely users pay attention to even the smallest details in their apps. As technology continues to evolve, companies like Meta must remain vigilant in addressing technical issues swiftly to maintain user trust and satisfaction.
In the end, what might have been a minor glitch turned into a significant talking point among Facebook’s vast user base, with many urging the company to “change it back, please” after the brief but noticeable disruption.
I donāt like the new Facebook app icon on iOS.
— This Brown Geek (@thisbrowngeek) August 29, 2024
Ewww. pic.twitter.com/tWnpVn7ae9