Ricing at a Glance
I have an Android phone, a Note 4 to be exact. Since this is the only phone I have I can't really help all that much with other phones, older android versions, and definitely not iOS. That being said, I hope that the information I give can be helpful.
The information is simply an introduction to the tools that I suggest you use. If you are looking for a more in depth tutorial on a certain app or topic ask and I'll look into writing a tutorial.
0. ROMs
I don't mess with ROMs anymore. Once upon a time I would spend hours at a time looking through ROMs. But when it comes to ricing choose what's best for you feature-wise. A lot of people stick to simple or stock versions of Android to avoid bloatware (software usually added by a company that basically just consumes battery life, storage, and memory).
1. Picking your Launcher
A launcher is your home screen, when you press the home button you're taken to your launcher.
This is ricing on easy mode. I've used this launcher before and love it's default icons and the Atom widgets that you can download.
Play Store.
This is ricing on normal, hard, and elite mode. When you see a fancy setup, it's most likely using Nova or the Apex launcher. What's the difference between the two? Just about nothing. Both have a paid and a free version, and both are perfect for ricing your phone. I use Nova Prime, this is simply because I found Nova before Apex.
2. Wallpapers
This is a topic that has the largest impact and I can can help the least with. I believe that a wallpaper is a background and shouldn't be the only thing on your screen.
Where to Find Wallpapers
These are the sites I use to find wallpapers, for the most part you can find almost anything that you want.
What to Pick
This is mainly up to you. I usually pick a wallpaper before any other aspect of my rice. Try to stay away from people and complicated images. If you want some easy options try using a space wallpaper or perhaps one of a landscape.
3. Icons
Where to Find Icon Packs
There are only two good places that I have found icon packs I enjoyed. The
Play Store is the best recourse, there's also
deviantart.
Paying for Icon Packs
Some people never pay for an icon pack, but if you want a certain set of icons or to support the developer you should buy it. Give the artist a cup of coffee.
4. Widgets/Animations
If you really want to customize how your phone works and animates these are the tools I suggest.
Zooper is the best and has the most user-made widgets. Anything from a fancy clock to the latest new, you can make it or find one with Zooper. While the learning curve for making your own "fancy" widgets may be a bit steep it's the best way to get customize your home screen.
While this isn't really a widget, it can do all the same things. This is your all-in-one when you don't want a bunch of widgets. KLWP IS A LIVE WALLPAPER. This is what I have been using since I discovered it. I enjoy trying out new setups, KLWP let's me create my entire setup and save it so I can come back to it later. If you choose to use KLWP I suggest purchasing the full version, that way you can import your settings again.
5. Apps
While some stock apps look alright, here are some alternatives you may enjoy.
Web Browsers
Google Chrome
Firefox
Internet
Text Messaging
EvolveSMS
Go SMS
Notes
If you think I missed something or that the information provided is not sufficient I invite you to comment. This is my first time writing for the sake of sharing, any input is appreciated.
