How to Enable Dark Mode in Gmail App on Android

Dark mode is now available everywhere, from operating systems and smartphone apps to websites and web browsers. This mode converts the colors of the user interface to dark colors to reduce eye strain when using them at night or under dim lighting. However, the main reason for the widespread adoption of dark mode is its ability to conserve battery life, especially on smartphones with OLED screens. Regardless, you can now activate dark mode in the Gmail app for Android as well, as Google has officially started rolling out the new feature to users worldwide.

As is the case with most new features introduced by Google for its apps, dark mode in the Gmail app will gradually make its way to Android smartphone users. The feature is reportedly available in version 2019.08.18.267044774 of the Gmail app on Android, which is currently available on the Google Play Store.

If you are currently using an older version of the app, you need to open the store, go to My apps & games, and check for a new update for the Gmail app. If available, click on the Update button to download and install the new update.

Since the feature will be initially available to a select number of users, you may not find it even after upgrading to the latest version. You may need to wait a while for the new feature to become available in Gmail on your phone. So how do you verify its availability? That’s what we explain in the following paragraphs.

After installing version 2019.08.18.267044774 or higher, open the Gmail app on your smartphone, swipe from the edge of the screen from left to right, or click on the menu button at the top. Then scroll down and click on Settings, then proceed to General Settings where you can find the new Theme option. Click on it to choose between the normal and dark modes, as well as the System default option which selects the appropriate mode according to the setting from the original Android settings.

If you do not find the Theme option initially, it is because you are using an old version of the Gmail app or the new feature is being gradually rolled out, so you may need to visit the General Settings page in the coming days to check for its availability.

After enabling dark mode in the Gmail app, the background color will change to a dark gray instead of white, prevalent throughout the app’s graphical interface. You will find it in all folders, in the inbox, in email messages, even in the options menus, providing greater eye comfort and extending battery life, especially on phones with OLED screens. If you want to know the reason, we suggest you read our previous article on this topic.