How to activate the new WhatsApp dark mode

WhatsApp is finally launching its most requested feature: Dark mode and as of March 3, 2020, dark mode is rolling out to all WhatsApp users around the globe.

The stealthy option has basically become a must-have feature for apps over the past year or two, and though a select few Android users have seen previews of the feature show up, this is the first time the company is officially supporting it for all Android and iOS devices.

Here’s what you need to do.

1. Open WhatsApp from the app drawer or home screen.
2. Tap the action overflow menu (three vertical dots in the top right corner).
3. Hit Settings.
4. Select Chats.
5. Choose Themes.
6. In the Choose Theme dialog box, select Dark.
7. You should see the interface switch to a dark theme.

WhatsApp notes that its primary focus was reducing eye-strain in low light environments.  That’s why, unlike some other apps, the dark areas aren’t quite pitch black.

It also used colors and other design elements “to make sure the most important information stands out.”