How to Activate Dark Mode on Snapchat [iOS and Android]

Dark mode has become a popular feature across various apps, offering a visually appealing and more comfortable user experience, especially in low-light conditions. Snapchat, one of the leading social media platforms, has also embraced this trend. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to activate dark mode on Snapchat for both iOS and Android devices.

How to Activate Dark Mode on Snapchat [iOS and Android]: This photo depicts a hand holding a smartphone with the Snapchat icon on its screen against a dark background.
Image by Freepik [Edited]

Why Use Dark Mode on Snapchat?

Dark mode has emerged as a preferred display option for many users across various applications such as Instagram and Notion, and Snapchat is no exception; it has called its dark mode “Always Dark.” Here are compelling reasons why you should consider switching to dark mode on Snapchat:

1. Reduced Eye Strain

Dark mode’s softer color palette is gentler on the eyes, especially in low-light conditions, making your Snapchat sessions more comfortable.

Read also: How to Adjust Screen Settings to Ease Your Eyes

2. Battery Savings (for Some Devices)

Dark mode can potentially extend battery life on OLED and AMOLED screens by using less power, a subtle yet practical advantage for frequent Snapchat users.

3. Modern Aesthetic

Dark mode brings a stylish, contemporary look to Snapchat, enhancing the overall visual experience and making content stand out more vividly.

4. Better Visibility in Low Light

Whether you’re in a dimly lit room or scrolling through Snapchat at night, dark mode reduces screen brightness for improved visibility and a more discreet app use.

5. Personalized User Experience

Dark mode allows you to customize Snapchat to your preferences, adding a touch of personalization for a more enjoyable social media experience.

Now, let’s dive into the quick and easy steps to activate dark mode on Snapchat for both iOS and Android.

Pro Tip: Snapchat is popular, and many users face issues with their accounts being blocked. Learn how to unlock your locked Snapchat account and restore it to normal functionality.

How to Enable Dark Mode on Snapchat for iOS

Dark mode on Snapchat for iOS can be activated directly within the app. Here’s a quick guide to seamlessly switch to dark mode:

Step 1: Open Snapchat and Ensure App Update

Launch the Snapchat app on your iOS device. Before proceeding, make sure you have the latest version of the Snapchat app installed. If an update is available, download and install it from the App Store.

This image shows a screenshot from an iPhone screen, with the Snapchat app icon highlighted.

Step 2: Access Snapchat Settings

On the Snapchat camera screen, tap on your profile icon located at the top left or swipe down to access your profile screen. Look for the gear icon in the upper-right corner – this represents your settings. Tap on it to enter the Snapchat settings.

This image shows 2 different screenshots of Snapchat on an iPhone. The first shows the Snapchat camera screen with the profile icon in the top-left highlighted. The second shows the user profile page with the gear icon in the top-right highlighted.

Step 3: Navigate to App Appearance

Within the settings menu, scroll down and find the App Appearance option. Tap on it to open the settings related to the appearance of the Snapchat app.

This image shows a screenshot of the Snapchat app settings page on an iPhone. The 'App Appearance' option is highlighted.

Step 4: Choose Dark Mode (Always Dark)

In the App Appearance settings, you will see four options: Match System, Always Light, Always Dark and Custom. Choose “Always Dark” to enable dark mode on Snapchat. This option ensures that Snapchat remains in dark mode regardless of your device’s system-wide appearance settings.

This image shows a screenshot of the Snapchat App Appearance screen on an iPhone. The 'Always Dark' option is highlighted.
Select “Always Dark” to change Snapchat to dark mode on your iPhone.

Step 5: Confirm Dark Mode Activation

Once you’ve selected Always Dark, you should immediately notice the transition to dark mode within the Snapchat app. The background will adopt darker tones, providing a more visually comfortable experience.

This image shows a screenshot of the Snapchat user profile on an iPhone. It has a dark background indicating dark mode has been activated on Snapchat.
Snapchat Dark Mode is now activated on iPhone.

Pro Tip: There are numerous symbols, icons and emojis on Snapchat. Learn what all the symbols, icons and emojis mean on Snapchat, so you can navigate the platform with ease.

How to Enable Dark Mode on Snapchat for Android

Activating dark mode on Snapchat for Android is a straightforward process, allowing users to enjoy a visually appealing and comfortable interface. Follow these step-by-step instructions to enable dark mode within the Snapchat app on your Android device:

Step 1: Open Snapchat

Launch the Snapchat app on your Android device. Make sure you have the latest updated version of the Snapchat app.

This image shows a screenshot of an Android phone with the Snapchat app icon highlighted.

Step 2: Access Snapchat Settings

Tap on your profile icon or swipe down to access your profile screen. Look for the gear icon in the upper-right corner and tap on it to enter the Snapchat settings.

This image shows 2 different screenshots of Snapchat on an Android phone. The first shows the Snapchat camera screen with the profile icon in the top-left highlighted. The second shows the user profile page with the gear icon in the top-right highlighted.

Step 3: Navigate to App Appearance

Scroll down within the settings menu and find the App Appearance option. Tap on it to access the settings related to the appearance of the Snapchat app.

This image shows a screenshot of the Snapchat app settings page on an Android phone. The 'App Appearance' option is highlighted.

Step 4: Choose Dark Mode (Always Dark)

Within the App Appearance settings, you will see three options: Always light, Always dark and Custom app theme. Select “Always dark” to enable dark mode on Snapchat. This ensures that Snapchat remains in dark mode regardless of your device’s system-wide appearance settings.

This image shows a screenshot of the Snapchat App Appearance screen on an Android phone. The 'Always Dark' option is highlighted.
Select “Always Dark” to change Snapchat to dark mode on your Android phone.

Step 5: Confirm Dark Mode Activation

After selecting Always dark, a Dark Mode Setting Updated alert will pop up, notifying you that the Snapchat app needs to restart. Ensure you save anything important. Tap the Restart now button when ready, and the app will restart.

This image displays a screenshot of the Snapchat App Appearance screen on an Android phone. A 'Dark Mode Setting Update' notification has popped up, and its 'Restart now' button is highlighted.

You should immediately notice the transition to dark mode within the Snapchat app, as the background adopts darker tones, providing a more visually comfortable experience.”

This image shows a screenshot of the Snapchat user profile on an Android phone. It has a dark background indicating dark mode has been activated on Snapchat.
Snapchat Dark Mode is now activated on Android phone.

Snapchat Dark Mode Not Working: Troubleshooting Tips

While enabling dark mode on Snapchat is usually a straightforward process, you may encounter occasional issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you navigate and resolve common challenges:

1. Update Your App

Before troubleshooting, ensure that you are using the latest version of the Snapchat app. Outdated versions may have bugs or lack support for the latest features, including dark mode.

2. Restart the App

If dark mode doesn’t activate immediately after making the selection in your Snapchat settings, try restarting the app. Close it completely and relaunch to see if the changes take effect.

3. Check System Requirements

Ensure that your device meets the system requirements for running the latest version of Snapchat with dark mode. Some older devices may not fully support certain features.

4. Verify Device Compatibility

Double-check if your device is compatible with the dark mode feature. While most modern smartphones support dark mode, some older models may not offer this functionality.

5. Update Your Operating System

Dark mode integration can be dependent on your device’s operating system. Ensure that your iOS or Android operating system is up to date, as Snapchat’s dark mode may rely on system-level features.

6. Reinstall Snapchat

If issues persist, consider uninstalling and reinstalling the Snapchat app. This can help resolve any corrupted files or glitches that may be hindering the activation of dark mode.

7. Check App Permissions

Confirm that Snapchat has the necessary permissions to modify its appearance settings. Go to your device settings, find Snapchat, and ensure that it has permission to access display settings.

8. Contact Snapchat Support

If all else fails, reaching out to Snapchat support can provide personalized assistance. Visit Snapchat’s official support channels or community forums for guidance from the Snapchat team or fellow users.

Read also: How to Hide Snaps in “My Eyes Only” on Snapchat

Conclusion

There you have it—your guide to activate dark mode on Snapchat for both iOS and Android. Enjoy a sleeker interface, reduced eye strain, and a more personalized Snapchat experience. If you encounter any issues, our troubleshooting tips are here to help. Happy Snapping!

Additional resources: (Snapchat)

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