How to turn on dark theme on Android

2 min read · 3 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

Open Settings, tap Display and switch on Dark theme. Tap the row to add a schedule, such as sunset to sunrise.

Dark theme gives menus and most apps a dark background with light text. It is easier on the eyes at night and saves battery on phones with OLED screens.

Menu names below are from Google Pixel phones on a recent Android version. Samsung, Xiaomi and other brands rename some of them, so the Samsung name is given where it differs. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the screen, not screenshots.

Step by step

  1. SettingsNetwork & internetConnected devicesAppsNotificationsBatteryStorageDisplay

    Open Settings and tap Display

    On Samsung, tap Display as well.

  2. DisplayBrightness levelDark themeDisplay size and textScreen timeout

    Switch on Dark theme

    On Samsung, tap Dark at the top of the Display page.

  3. Set a schedule

    Tap the Dark theme row, then Schedule. Choose Turns on from sunset to sunrise, or at a custom time, or at bedtime.

Good to know

The quick way: swipe down twice from the top and tap the Dark theme tile.

Most Google apps follow the system setting. A few apps have their own theme option in their settings.

Battery Saver switches dark theme on by itself.

In short: Settings, Display, Dark theme.

Sources
  • Google Android Help: Change dark theme and colour settings on Android

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.