Table of Contents
Prerequisites
Before we dive into the fun part, make sure your device is ready:
- Rooted Android Device: You’ll need root access on your device. If you’re unsure how to root it, you can use Magisk or SuperSU to get started.
- TWRP Recovery Installed: Some methods require TWRP recovery to install theme files.
- Backup Your Data: Always back up your phone’s data just in case something doesn’t go as planned.
- Compatible Theme Files: Make sure the themes you want to use are suitable for your device and the software version it runs.
Using Substratum for Custom Themes
Substratum is a popular app that lets you apply custom themes on rooted devices. It makes changing the look of your phone easy, without needing to mess with complicated files.
Install Substratum
First, head over to the Google Play Store and download the Substratum Theme Engine.
Install a Substratum-Compatible Theme
Once you have Substratum installed, you’ll need to find a compatible theme. You can download themes from the Play Store. For instance, PitchBlack is a sleek dark theme that’s well-loved by users.
Apply the Theme
- Open the Substratum app and pick the theme you downloaded.
- Choose which parts of your phone you want to change, like the notification bar or settings.
- Tap Build and Enable to apply the theme. Sometimes, you might need to reboot your phone for everything to work properly.
And that’s it! Your phone should now have a new look. If something doesn’t seem right, just restart your phone, and things should fall into place.
Applying Custom .MTZ Themes on MIUI
If you’re using a Xiaomi device with MIUI, applying custom themes can be tricky. But with a rooted device, you can still get the themes you want.
Root Your Device with Magisk
If your Xiaomi device isn’t rooted yet, use Magisk to root it. You need root access to bypass MIUI’s restrictions on themes.
Download the MIUI Global Theme Patcher
Next, download the MIUI Global Theme Patcher and flash it through Magisk. This will allow you to import custom .MTZ themes into your theme manager.
Import and Apply .MTZ Themes
- Open your Theme Manager app on MIUI.
- Use the new import option to add the custom .MTZ theme you’ve downloaded.
- Apply the theme, and you’re good to go.
If you run into errors, like “network issues,” turning off automatic updates or using a VPN to a Chinese server often helps.
Installing Themes via TWRP Recovery
For those who want more control over how their phone looks, using TWRP recovery to install themes is another option. It’s a bit more technical but can offer deeper changes to your phone’s appearance.
Download Your Custom Theme
Download the theme you want in .zip format. You can find many great themes on XDA Forums. Make sure the file is made for TWRP.
Enter TWRP Recovery Mode
- Power off your device.
- Hold down Power and Volume Up at the same time to boot into TWRP.
Flash the Theme File
- In TWRP, select Install and find the theme .zip file you downloaded.
- Swipe to confirm the installation.
- Reboot your phone, and your new theme should be applied.
This method gives you a lot of control over the final look of your phone. After rebooting, your phone should have the theme applied exactly as you wanted.
Changing the theme on a rooted Android device is one of the best ways to make your phone look and feel unique. Whether you go for Substratum, .MTZ themes for MIUI, or flashing themes through TWRP, the steps are easy to follow. Plus, who doesn’t love giving their phone a fresh new look? Which method are you thinking of trying first?