The battle between light and dark modes on Android devices seems to have reached a turning point, with darkness emerging victorious. Android Authority reports that an Android 14 beta, released in January, includes a hidden setting that allows users to “make all apps dark.” This means that even apps that don’t natively support dark mode can be forced into it, providing a complete darkening experience for Android phone users.
As someone who has long been a fan of dark mode, I understand the frustration of encountering apps that blind users with anything brighter than a very dark grey. The new setting, found in Settings -> System -> Developer option, is described as applying to apps without their own dark theme. However, it’s worth noting that some apps may experience display issues, such as inverted colors.
This new setting is similar to an existing developer option that also applies a dark theme to all apps, but developers have the choice to opt out of it. Additionally, there is an option to invert colors in the Accessibility settings, but this often produces odd results. The newly discovered setting appears to be intended for users rather than developers and delivers better outcomes. However, Android Authority points out that it is still not perfect, as indicated by a gallery of apps showcasing forcefully applied dark mode.
While the feature is not yet available in the latest Android 15 beta, it is expected to be included in a future release. There is speculation that it may be unveiled during Google I/O 2024, which is scheduled for May 14.
Overall, this hidden setting for enabling dark mode on all Android apps is a welcome addition for those who prefer a darker aesthetic. It allows users to have more control over the appearance of their devices and reduces eye strain in low-light conditions. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there may still be some minor issues with certain apps. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that further improvements will be made to enhance the dark mode experience on Android devices. In the meantime, users can look forward to future updates that may bring even more advancements in this area.
