The appearance setting on Apple’s mobile operating system that uses a darker color palette for the user interface is referred to as dark mode. This feature modifies the default light interface by utilizing darker shades for backgrounds, along with lighter text and interface elements to ensure readability. For example, instead of a white background with black text in the Mail application, dark mode presents a black background with white or light gray text.
Adoption of a dark interface presents several advantages. It reduces eye strain, especially in low-light environments, potentially mitigating digital eye fatigue. Furthermore, on devices with OLED screens, the darker display can contribute to power savings by reducing the energy required to illuminate the screen. The aesthetic appeal of a darker interface is also a factor in its popularity, offering a more modern and visually appealing experience for many users. The introduction of this visual theme has roots in the growing awareness of digital wellbeing and user comfort.