I care about icons. I really do. Mac third party developers also care about icons. The latter explains why they go as far as designing new icons from scratch for every major update, while the latter explains why I would go as far as writing about it.

iDocument

iDocument is my favorite document manager for Mac. It borrows heavily from iPhoto and would have been easily mistaken for a default Apple application. As for the recent icon redesign, it’s neither an improvement nor a misstep, even though I personally prefer the original. The new icon features more vivid colors and few additional grams of gloss, making it look less professional and cutting-edge.

iStat Menus

The icon of our favorite system monitor has also undergone a plastic surgery in the most recent update. The top highlight is a welcome addition as it gives a subtle 3d look to a previously flat and boring icon. The new bezel emphasizes this effect thanks to its smoother and more rounded surface.

Snowtape

And then there is Snowtape, the best radio application for mac. Bar none.

The new icon of Snowtape 2 parted with the marker which contributed considerably in emphasizing the DYI feel that made the old icon original and playful. While gaining in refinement and glitz, the new icon is uninteresting and monotonous at best.

Have you spotted any recent icon redesigns on mac? Let us know in the comments.