WhatsApp is a popular app used by millions around the globe to connect with their contacts, wherever they are in the world. And the free messaging app is about to get an aesthetic upgrade. WhatsApp is about to offer an unilluminated interface, known as dark mode.
Most of the internet is presented as black text on a white background.
But there is a growing consensus among developers of app and operating systems alike that the experience can be a little unpleasant on your eyes.
Dark mode is a simple solution to potential eye strain by inverting the colours.
Back in September, reputable outlet WABetaInfo announced WhatsApp was working on a dark mode.
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WABetaInfo is a publication renowned for meticulously analysing beta and alpha versions of the software in an attempt to gain an insight about forthcoming features.
At the time, its Twitter account said: “I’m happy to exclusively give the good news: WhatsApp is finally working on a Dark Mode! It’s a dream.
“There are many important secret references in recent updates!
“Be patient to see it out, hoping it will be FULL OLED friendly for Android phones, iPhone X and newer!”
The outlet has since posted images of the alleged dark theme being used, offering a tantalising glimpse at how the feature may look.
However, since the initial announcement from WABetaInfo, WhatsApp has neither commented on the existence on the feature nor given an official release date for it.
Until an official dark theme arrives there is clever trick to mimic the effect.
Selecting a matt black background in the messaging page can significant improve the user experience, especially with nocturnal conversations.
The background image is also applied for the WhatApp groups.
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How to make WhatsApp darker:
Begin by selecting Settings tab from the WhatsApp button bar, then press Chats, Chat Wallpaper, and Solid Colours.
Next scroll down the Solid Colours option and choose any dark colour followed by tapping Set to apply the dark wallpaper to the chat screen.
Users also have the option of using a customised dark picture simply by saving it to the camera roll and choosing from the Photos option from the Chat Wallpaper page.
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The history of dark mode:
Apple’s System 7 OS in 1991 was one of the first operating systems to offer a darker alternative for screens.
Windows 95 later boasted a High Contrast toggle, effectively doing the same.
The 2001 Windows XP went one further by featuring multiple high-contrast themes and the option to change the colour of the user interface
Fast forward a few years and dark mode is an increasingly popular option, with YouTube and Apple’s macOS 10.14 Mojave among those following the trend.
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