How to Turn On Instagram Dark Mode on Android, iPhone & PC + 7 Fix Common Issues

With more than 82% of users preferring dark mode on their phones, it’s no surprise that Instagram dark mode is also very popular. Since its launch in 2019, dark mode on Instagram has been the primary look for the platform.

Knowing what’s popular on the platform can help you appeal to users and ultimately get more followers on Instagram. With all of that in mind, let’s take an in-depth look at what dark mode on Instagram is and what you can do with it. 

What Is Instagram Dark Mode?

Instagram dark mode is a display setting that changes the general look of the platform. While all the backgrounds are white in the default mode, with black or blue writings and icons, dark mode flips these colors but maintains the contrast.

That means everything that was once white is now black, gray, or blue. Everything that was previously black is now white. Research shows that dark mode is more gentle on your eyes, reducing screen glare and blue light exposure. You can even set your display to turn on Instagram dark mode as the day turns into night.

How to Turn On Instagram Dark Mode

Now that we know why dark mode is useful, let’s explore how you can turn this mode on. While turning this mode on previously required separate steps in the apps, nowadays you can easily switch your phone’s display, which automatically turns dark mode on the platform. 

How to Activate Instagram Dark Mode on Android 

You can simply switch your phone to dark mode, or follow these steps from inside the app. 

1. Go to “Settings and privacy”,

2. Tap on “Accessibility“,

3. Switch “Dark mode” to on.

If you choose “System default,” then the display will change based on your phone’s settings. This is also the default on the app.

How to Activate Instagram Dark Mode on iPhone

iOS does not have an in-app option to change to dark mode. If you’re trying to get dark mode on Instagram, you need to change your phone’s display settings. To do this:

1. Go to “Settings”,

2. Find “Display & Brightness”,

3. Switch to “Dark”.

Instagram dark mode should automatically activate.

How to Turn on Instagram Dark Mode On Desktop

To switch to Instagram dark mode on your PC, you can open your browser and log into IG, then:

1. Click on the “More”,

2. Find and choose “Switch appearance”,

3. Toggle “Dark mode” on.

That’s it! Now you know how to turn dark mode on Instagram on every device. 

How to Turn Off Dark Mode on Instagram

Turning off Instagram dark mode requires the same steps as turning it on. Let’s briefly explore these steps:

• Turn Off Dark Mode On Android: In the Instagram app, go to Settings, Accessibility, Dark mode, and choose Off.

• Turn Off Dark Mode On iPhone: In Settings, Display & Brightness, select Light. Instagram will revert to its regular light theme.

• Turn Off Dark Mode on Desktop: On Instagram.com, go to Settings, Change Appearance, and select Light (or turn off the Dark toggle.)

Why My Instagram Dark Mode Isn’t Working?

You may be wondering why dark mode isn’t working on your device. Here are a few common issues users face:

1. Check OS Compatibility: Dark mode requires iOS 13+ on iPhone or Android 10+ on Android.
2. Update Instagram: Make sure you have the latest version of the app. Older versions may not have the dark mode toggle.
3. Restart or Reinstall: Sometimes, dark mode can glitch after an update. Try closing the app completely. If that fails, uninstall and reinstall Instagram; this often restores missing features.
4. iOS Issues: Remember that on iPhone, Instagram does not have its own dark mode switch.
5. Android Path: On some Android devices, the in-app toggle path may vary slightly. Check Settings, Accessibility & translations inside Instagram for a Dark Mode switch.
6. Device Theme Overrides: In general, Instagram mirrors the system theme. If you have a device-wide dark mode schedule or theme override, it will affect Instagram. Disable any auto-themes if Instagram isn’t showing light mode.
7. Dark Mode Randomly Turned On: If you switch to Instagram disappearing messages, dark mode will automatically turn on in the DMs. This will turn off once disappearing messages are turned off. 

Why Use Instagram Dark Mode?

There are a few different reasons you may want to use IG dark mode. From just display preferences to reducing eye strain, here are some of the most common reasons users switch to dark mode.

1. Aesthetic Appeal

The biggest reason for Instagram dark mode’s popularity is aesthetics. Most users report that the white on black just looks better. Although this preference is completely subjective, more than 80% of users report enjoying dark mode better.

2. Eye Comfort

Lowering the contrast between your phone’s lighting and its surrounding area means more comfort for the eyes. This is especially true for users with migraines, making a headache less likely due to the lower contrast.

While there is some research that suggests reading speed is slightly higher in light mode, many users prioritize eye comfort over reading speed. 

3. Battery Life

One of the hidden benefits of Instagram dark mode is better battery life. Since darker colors consume less battery, switching to dark mode will improve your battery. On OLED screens, each pixel can turn off when black. 

One test found that enabling dark mode saved about 63% of battery on an AMOLED display compared to full brightness. So, in addition to looking better and being easier on the eyes, dark mode is also better for the battery.

Conclusion 

Instagram dark mode is one of the most popular changes made to the platform. This feature allows for dark backgrounds and light writings, making it easier for users who are typically in darker environments. This mode turns on and off based on your phone’s display settings, and makes for a smoother experience overall.

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