Summary
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Linux users tend to be passionate about distros and will fiercely defend their choice.
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Ubuntu 26.04 folders changed from a gray-based design to an orange color last week.
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Now that the community is dealing with a darker Yaru design, feedback is currently being given.
I’m really glad I switched from Windows to Linux in mid-2025. I enjoy free and open source software more than its proprietary cousins, and the freedom to do what I want with my desktop is refreshing. However, I have learned that people are like that a lot are passionate about their chosen distro and they pay close attention to the smallest details.
For example, Ubuntu users are currently debating the color of their folder icons. The colors were already changed last week and now a new batch has been made to appease the people who were not happy with the original designs.
Ubuntu folders are getting a redesign
Second time’s the charm?
As seen OMG UbuntuIn Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, file icons are slightly changed. Last week we saw a report on how the website was doing the familiar gray folders became a more vivid orangeOMG the Ubuntu article got people divided in the comments. Many people chimed in to say they liked them, but some didn’t quite agree with the new look. One user said the new folder design “looks like a child’s sketchbook,” while another said Ubuntu needs to focus elsewhere.
Now people work together with the Yaru team to create new revised kitand these are a little dark. It may seem like a small change, but the decision behind the redesign is pretty well documented:
See the commit for details, but make sure the folders don’t look “selected” because they’re too open, lighten the overlay, and use darker icons to make sure they have enough contrast.
Perhaps we can reduce the opacity of overlays that darken icons for larger icons, but I’ve opted to stay consistent for now.
People are flocking to the GitHub page to give feedback on these new icons; some like them and some want them to be tweaked more. Personally, I think I prefer the dark version of the icons; feels bolder than light. Either way, we should see if the design team can land on something that most people will like.
