Introducing alternative launch icons for Archicad and DDScad

[Eszter Fulop]

Making version differentiation easier

We understand that many of our users find it challenging to distinguish between different versions of Archicad and DDScad, especially when multiple versions are installed on the same desktop. To address this, we are excited to introduce alternative launch icons, designed specifically to help users quickly identify and differentiate between different versions.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of updating your launch icons with easy, step-by-step guides for both Windows and Mac users.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Limited use of icon
• Download the new icons
• Important Warning: Avoid direct icon replacement
• Step-by-step guide for Windows users
• Step-by-step guide for Mac users
• Restoring the original icon

 

Limited use of icon

These icons are owned by Graphisoft and protected by all applicable copyright laws. By downloading or using these icons, you agree to use them solely for the purpose of replacing the original icon. Any other use, including modification, redistribution, or use outside this specific purpose, is strictly prohibited.

 

Download the new icons

We’ve created a set of distinctive icons for each Archicad and DDScad version. The icons can be downloaded by clicking here.

⚠️ Important Warning: Avoid direct icon replacement ⚠️

While we’re providing alternative icons to help you differentiate between versions, it’s crucial to follow the correct method for changing icons.

🏴‍☠️ Do not attempt to replace the icon that is packaged within the application itself.
If you modify the icon directly within the Archicad application package, it can alter the program’s binaries. This change may cause Archicad to mistakenly identify itself as a pirated version, which can lead to serious issues, including the inability to use the software and potential reporting to our anti-piracy system.
Please avoid this solution and stick to the methods outlined in our step-by-step guide. This will ensure that your software remains fully functional and compliant.

 

Step-by-step guide for Windows users

1. Right-click on the desktop shortcut of Archicad.
2. Select Properties.
3. In the Shortcut tab, click the Change Icon button.
4. Click Browse and select the desired .ico file.
5. Once selected, click Apply and then OK.

Your shortcut icon is now updated.

Pro Tip: If the icon on the taskbar hasn't updated, simply Unpin the current icon from the taskbar, then right-click the updated desktop shortcut and choose Pin to Taskbar.

Step-by-step guide for Mac users

1. Open Finder and go to the Go menu.
2. Select Applications.
3. Locate the Archicad app whose icon you want to change.
4. Right-click the app and select Get Info.
5. In the top part of the Get Info window, you'll see the app's current icon.
6. In Finder, find the new icon image you downloaded.
7. Copy the new image (Command + C).
8. Return to the Get Info window.
9. Click on the current app icon in the top left of the Get Info window to select it.
10. Paste the new icon (Command + V).

And you’re done!

Pro Tip: If the icon on the dock hasn't updated, simply remove the current icon from dock, then grab the app from the Launchpad.

Troubleshooting: If the new icon doesn’t appear correctly:

1. Right-click the new icon image and open it with Preview.
2. In Preview, click Edit and then Select All.
3. Copy the selected image (Command + C).
4. Go back to the Get Info window of the Archicad app.
5. Click on the current app icon to select it.
6. Paste the new icon (Command + V).

Your icon should now be updated successfully!

Restoring the original icon

If you ever want to revert to the original Archicad icon, it’s easy to do:

 

On Windows:

Delete the Existing Shortcut

1. Right-click on the shortcut you want to restore.
2. Select Delete to remove it from the desktop.
3. If the icon is pinned to the taskbar, right-click the taskbar icon and choose Unpin from taskbar.

Recreate and Re-pin

1. Find the program in the Start menu or its folder, right-click it, and choose Send to > Desktop (create shortcut).
2. Then, if needed, right-click the new shortcut and select Pin to taskbar.

 

On Mac:

1. Open Finder and navigate to the Applications folder.
2. Locate the Archicad app and right-click on it.
3. Select Get Info.
4. Click on the app icon at the top of the Get Info window.
5. Press Command + X to remove the custom icon and revert to the original.
6. Close the Get Info window.

This will restore the original Archicad icon, giving you the default look and feel once again.