WhatsApp update will finally bring Dark Mode to Android
Leaked screenshots reveal what the new feature will look like
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.WhatsApp has developed Dark Mode for Android, finally delivering one of the most long-awaited features for the popular messaging app.
The new feature will come with an upcoming update for WhatsApp, though several leaked screenshots have already given an idea of what users might expect.
First spotted by Wabetainfo, WhatsApp's Dark Mode will reduce screen glare and make it easier for users to view messages in low light.
Android users will get the new feature as part of the 2.19.82 update, according to the publication, but it is not clear when this might be rolled out.
Screenshots of the feature show WhatsApp will implement a dark grey colour scheme, rather than black. This should serve to lower the contrast between the text and the background and therefore help prevent eye strain.
WhatsApp is not the first messaging app to introduce a dark mode, with Facebook Messenger, Telegram and Viber already including the feature within their apps.
Google is also reportedly working on an updated colour scheme to improve the user experience for its ubiquitous search engine.
Early beta testers of the app will get the first glimpse of the new mode, which any WhatsApp user is able to become by signing up through Google Play.
"Hello, WhatsApp Inc. has invited you to a testing program for an unreleased version of the WhatsApp Messenger app," The WhatsApp invite states.
"As a tester, you'll receive an update that includes a testing version of the WhatsApp Messenger app, which may also include unreleased versions of its instant app. Note: testing versions may be unstable."
The Facebook-owned app, which counts more than 1.5 billion monthly users, does not comment on unreleased features.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments