Summary
This article discusses the rising popularity of dark mode as a feature of user interface (UI).
Background
In the sense that the first computer screens had a black screen and green characters, Dark Mode has been around since the ’70s. So one could argue that people’s new preference for dark mode is somewhat retro, albeit not the motive for dark mode desirability.
The Demand for Dark
There’s a strong user demand for darkness that’s pressuring app developers to offer dark modes. For example, many of the big tech companies offer dark mode now, such as Facebook, Google, WhatsApp, and others. In a 2020 survey with thousands of participants, Android Authority found as much as 91.8% of people used dark mode in at least one place in their Android phones. Over at Apple, the MacOS Mojave donned a dark mode, selling it as superior for sensitive eyes. The iOS 13 release came with instructions (via its Human Interface Guideline), for app developers regarding how to design a Dark Mode option for users.
Flowtrac members aren’t afraid of the dark either. When touring our locations, a person could observe many screens on dark mode throughout the offices.
Technologically Speaking
Technological advances in how light is emitting from screens has aided dark mode in a different way. Namely, Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED). With OLED, the screen is not backlit like LCDs are, so for Dark Mode, diodes can just stay off. This also happens to improve battery life.
The Dark Mode Health Debate
Whether it’s actually better for your eyes has been a subject of debate. On the one hand, it’s less light hitting your eyes, but on the other hand, dark mode causes pupil dilation that can make reading more strenuous. Could it help with ADHD? Dark Mode eliminates light pulses during refreshes, so it might help some people focus better.Categories