How to enable dark mode on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To enable dark mode on your iPhone, go to Settings > Display & Brightness and select 'Dark' under Appearance. This feature helps reduce eye strain and saves battery life on OLED screens.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before enabling dark mode on your iPhone, ensure the following:
  • •iPhone running iOS 13 or later.
  • •No restrictions on display settings (check under Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions).
  • •Ensure your iPhone is charged or plugged in to avoid interruptions.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

This is the primary method to enable dark mode directly through the iPhone settings.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app by tapping the gear icon on your home screen.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Display & Brightness'.
  • •Step 3: Under the 'Appearance' section, select 'Dark'. You should see the interface change immediately.
  • •Step 4: To verify, return to the home screen and check if the background and app interfaces are darker. If it doesn't change, ensure your iOS is updated.

For iOS 14 and later

iOS 14 introduced additional customization options for dark mode.
  • •Step 1: Follow the same steps as above to reach 'Display & Brightness'.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Automatic' to schedule dark mode to turn on at sunset and off at sunrise.

For iOS 13

iOS 13 provides basic dark mode functionality without scheduling.
  • •Step 1: Access 'Display & Brightness' as described.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Dark' to enable the feature.

Method 2: Using Control Center

This method allows for quick access to dark mode from the Control Center.
  • •Step 1: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (iPhone X and later) or swipe up from the bottom (iPhone 8 and earlier).
  • •Step 2: Press and hold the brightness slider until more options appear.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the 'Appearance' button to toggle between Light and Dark modes.
  • •Step 4: Confirm the change by checking the home screen.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If dark mode does not activate as expected, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Dark mode not available' - Solution: Ensure your iPhone is updated to at least iOS 13. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  • •Issue: Dark mode enabled but not displaying - Fix: Restart your iPhone by holding the side button and sliding to power off.
  • •Problem: Dark mode scheduled but not activating - Workaround: Check the 'Automatic' setting under Display & Brightness and adjust the schedule.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users looking to enhance their experience with dark mode:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - Dark mode is primarily a UI feature without keyboard shortcuts.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Smart Invert' under Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size for additional contrast options.
  • •Automation: Use the Shortcuts app to create an automation that switches between light and dark mode based on time or location.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing dark mode can significantly enhance your viewing experience, especially in low-light conditions.