WhatsApp finally launches dark mode, but only in beta

Almost there.
 By 
Stan Schroeder
 on 
WhatsApp finally launches dark mode, but only in beta
WhatsApp is getting darker. Credit: Chesnot / getty images

Among the most popular mobile apps, WhatsApp is one of the few that still hasn't embraced dark mode.

This is bound to change soon, though, as the dark mode setting has appeared in the latest beta version of the WhatsApp app for Android (via Android Authority).

The option is precisely what you'd expect, giving you a choice between a light or dark theme (you can also choose to conform to the system default theme). If you go dark, the app's backgrounds will turn darker, but don't expect a totally black look; instead, you'll get various shades of dark gray.


You May Also Like

You can find the option under Settings - Chats - Theme.

To get the option, you must have the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android (2.20.13), which you can only get if you've signed up as a beta tester (and WhatsApp isn't accepting more testers at the moment). However, the fact that the option made it to beta is a good indicator we'll see it in one of the coming public releases, probably fairly soon.

With the addition of a dark mode option, WhatsApp follows many popular apps such as Twitter and Instagram which introduced the feature last year. However, WhatsApp's parent company Facebook still isn't offering the option for its main app, though it should be coming fairly soon as well.

Stan Schroeder
Stan Schroeder
Senior Editor

Stan is a Senior Editor at Mashable, where he has worked since 2007. He's got more battery-powered gadgets and band t-shirts than you. He writes about the next groundbreaking thing. Typically, this is a phone, a coin, or a car. His ultimate goal is to know something about everything.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
How to turn on Bluesky's dark mode
The Bluesky logo is seen displayed on a smartphone screen.

If dark scenes are too dark on your TV, play around with these settings
Illustration of hand pointing remote at TV to adjust brightness setting


OpenAI is delaying its 'adult mode' for ChatGPT
By Jack Dawes
ChatGPT Update Will Allow 'erotica' For Verified Adult Users


Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

Google launches Gemma 4, a new open-source model: How to try it
Google Gemma

NYT Strands hints, answers for April 3, 2026
A game being played on a smartphone.

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!