How to Turn On Instagram Dark Mode (Android, iPhone & Desktop)

Dark mode is not just a trendy aesthetic feature; it also offers a more comfortable reading experience, reduces eye strain, and helps save battery life on your devices. If you’re an Instagram user, you’ll be pleased to know that you can activate dark mode on your Android, iPhone, and Desktop. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process for each platform.

How to Turn On Instagram Dark Mode (Android, iPhone & Desktop): This image shows the Instagram logo on a dark background.

How to Turn On Instagram Dark Mode on Android

Before enabling dark mode on Instagram, ensure your app is updated to the latest version. This will ensure you have access to the latest features and options.

Activate Dark Mode on Android Phone’s Built-in Settings

1. Go to your phone’s settings.

This image shows the Gear Icon on an Android phone being highlighted.

2. Scroll down and tap on “Display” or “Display & brightness” (this may vary based on your Android version).

This image shows the Settings screen of an Android phone. The "Display & brightness" option is highlighted.

3. Look for the “Dark Mode” option and toggle it on.

This image shows the "Display & brightness" screen of an Android phone. The Dark Mode option is highlighted.

This method will enable dark mode for your entire Android phone. Any apps that support dark mode, including Instagram, will now be displayed in dark mode.

Read also: How to Activate Dark Mode on Snapchat [iOS and Android]

Instagram’s Exclusive Dark Mode for Android

For Android users, Instagram has an exclusive dark mode feature within the app.

Here’s how to activate it:

1. Open your Instagram app.

2. Tap on your profile picture in the bottom right corner to access your profile.

This image shows the home screen of Instagram mobile app on Android. The user's profile pic icon in the bottom-right corner is highlighted.

3. In the top-right corner, tap the three horizontal lines to open the menu.

This image shows the user's Instagram profile screen. The 3-Horizontal Lines Icon in the top-right corner is highlighted.

4. Tap on “Settings and privacy.”

This image shows the Instagram Android mobile app's menu. The "Settings and privacy" option is highlighted.

5. In “Settings and privacy,” scroll down to the “Your app and media” section and tap on “Accessibility.” Tap on “Dark mode” on the following screen.

This image features two screenshots demonstrating how to activate dark mode on the Instagram Android mobile app.

6. Choose “On” to enable dark mode.

This image displays two screenshots, showcasing the transition of the Instagram Android app from light mode to dark mode.

Now, your Instagram app on Android will appear in dark mode, offering a more comfortable browsing experience, especially in low-light conditions.

Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with Instagram’s symbols and icons to navigate the platform more easily.

How to Turn On Instagram Dark Mode on iPhone

Just like on Android, make sure your Instagram app is up-to-date to ensure you have the latest features.

Activate Dark Mode on iPhone

Unfortunately, Instagram’s dark mode feature within the app is not available for iPhone users. However, you can still enable dark mode for Instagram by using your iPhone’s built-in settings.

Here’s how:

1. Go to your iPhone’s settings.

This image shows the "Settings" Icon on iPhone being highlighted.

2. Scroll down and tap on “Display & Brightness.”

This image shows the Settings page on iPhone. The "Display & Brightness" option is highlighted.

3. Under the “Appearance” section, select “Dark.”

This image shows the "Display & Brightness" screen of an iPhone. The "Dark" option under Appearance is highlighted.

Your Instagram app on your iPhone will now appear in dark mode, offering a more relaxed browsing experience.

Please take note: This method enables dark mode for your entire iPhone. This means enabling dark mode using the iPhone’s built-in settings has a system-wide effect, not limited to Instagram alone.

How to Turn On Instagram Dark Mode on Desktop

If you’re using Instagram on your desktop browser, you have the option to customize your Instagram settings on the website itself and activate dark mode.

Follow these steps to do so:

1. Open your preferred web browser and go to Instagram.

2. On the Instagram homepage, locate the three-bar burger menu icon located at the bottom left of the site.

This image shows the Instagram home page on desktop. The 3-Horizontal Lines Icon in the bottom-left corner is highlighted.

3. Click on the “Switch appearance” option within the menu.

This image shows the Instagram home page on desktop. The "Switch appearance" option in the menu bar is highlighted.

4. Now, simply toggle on the dark mode option to enable it.

This image shows how to toggle on Instagram dark mode on Instagram desktop. The "Dark mode" option is highlighted.

5. You have now turned on Instagram dark mode on desktop.

This image shows Instagram desktop in dark mode.

By following these steps, you can easily switch Instagram to dark mode when accessing it on your desktop browser. Enjoy a more visually comfortable browsing experience on Instagram.

Pro Tip: Discover how to enable dark mode on Notion for both desktop and mobile.

Conclusion

Enabling dark mode on Instagram is a simple process for Android, iPhone and desktop. This feature not only enhances your browsing experience but also reduces eye strain and conserves battery life on your devices. Give it a try and enjoy a more visually appealing Instagram experience, day or night.

Happy scrolling!

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