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5 universal icons you intuitively understand
But you can’t recall when did you learn them.
Have you ever stopped for a moment and thought about how many icons we use on a daily basis?
The play icon on Netflix, the search icon on Google, the Instagram heart… the answer is probably over a hundred. Every single day.
Now, which is even more impressive, have you ever realized these icons are used in a wide variety of apps and companies? Some of them do have common meanings across fields, companies, and cultures.
And just a few have found their own way to become Universal icons.
There are some of these little elements that have a meaning for themselves. Anyone — whoever they are and wherever they come from — can easily understand them. However, these icons are not something we are already born with. We all had a period of learning.
In today’s modern society, as we are daily bombed with thousands of inputs and different digital interfaces, it is almost impossible not to learn them by heart.
What exactly are Icons?
Icons are visual representations of objects, concepts, or ideas. When used correctly, they can educate, communicate and increase usability.
They are small and meaningful elements that solve numerous problems and have become little keys to usability and intuitive navigation. And some of the most successful icons are those that are universally recognized around the globe.
Details matter, it’s worth waiting to get it right — by Steve Jobs
According to Rachee Jacobs, the most widely recognized icons and symbols are rarely looked at for more than 2 seconds before understanding what the intention is. This means that we don’t give them much attention, because they naturally blend in.
Of course, any designer knows how much time and effort is needed to make them simple, helpful, and expressive. This is why today I wanted to discuss a little bit about the most…
