WhatsApp 'Dark Mode' Now Available For iOS, Android: How To Enable It

Facebook has finally decided to add Dark Mode to WhatsApp, allowing users to enjoy using the messaging app at night without worry of getting blinded by light.

WhatsApp is now getting Dark Mode for both iOS and Android app users. The new feature will automatically work for iOS 13 and Android 10 users who have enabled dark mode at the system level, The Verge reported. Android 9 users, on the other hand, can use the feature by creating a new dark theme via WhatsApp's setting menu.

WhatsApp's dark more doesn't just color the display in a darker color. According to a WhatsApp spokesperson, the darker color works to lower a smartphone's display brightness setting so that it can be used even the surroundings are very dark and using a lighted device feels uncomfortable.

“During testing we found that combining pure black and white creates high contrast that can lead to eye fatigue,” the spokesperson said. “So instead, you’ll notice a special dark gray background and off-white color that lowers the brightness of the screen, cuts down the glare, and improves contrast and readability.”

Screenshots comparing how the feature works in iOS and Android (via The Verge) revealed that the app looks a bit darker on iPhones. Despite the slight difference, the new WhatsApp feature works the same way: putting darker backgrounds behind bright text and icons and, in effect, lowering the display's brightness levels.

How to enable Dark Mode

It's easy to enable Dark Mode and enjoy the comfort that it brings to the eyes, Gizmodo noted. But before it can work, users must make sure that they are using the latest WhatsApp version. As mentioned, it will automatically work when the dark mode settings in iOS 13 and Android 10 are enabled at the system level. Android 9 users will still need to do the following:

• First, users will need to launch WhatsApp on their device.
• Second, once the app is up and running, users will need to proceed to WhatsApp Settings.
• Third, once there, users should navigate to Chats.
• Fourth, in Chats, users should look for and select Theme.
• Last, users should then select Dark.

The feature should now be available for all users. Those who still can't find it should wait a few days then check to see if it's already there.