Dark mode in Google Chat reduces screen brightness and makes it easier to read messages in low-light conditions. This feature is now available on both desktop and mobile versions of Google Chat, helping users minimize eye fatigue during long periods of use. The following instructions cover how to activate dark mode on different platforms, along with alternative workarounds for situations where native options are limited.

Enable Dark Mode in Google Chat on Desktop

Step 1: Open chat.google.com in your preferred web browser. Make sure you’re signed in with your Google account to access your conversations.

Step 2: Locate the Settings icon, which appears as a gear symbol at the top right corner of the Google Chat interface. Click this icon to open the settings menu.

Step 3: In the settings menu, scroll down to the section labeled “Appearance” or “Theme settings.” Here, you’ll find theme options for your chat environment.

Step 4: Select the “Dark” option. This immediately switches the chat window to a dark background, which reduces glare and can make reading easier in dim environments.

Step 5: Click “Done” or simply close the settings menu. Your preference is saved automatically, and Google Chat will remain in dark mode until you change it back.

Note: Sidebar applications such as Calendar, Keep, and Tasks may still display in light mode. Google may expand dark mode support to these apps in the future, but currently, their appearance remains unchanged when you switch Google Chat to dark mode.

Enable Dark Mode in Google Chat on Android Devices

Step 1: Open the Google Chat app on your Android phone or tablet. Ensure your device is running Android 10 or later, as dark mode is only available on these versions.

Step 2: Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines or your profile picture) in the top left corner to open the app menu.

Step 3: Scroll down and select “Settings.”

Step 4: In the settings menu, tap on “Theme.”

Step 5: Choose the “Dark” option. The app will immediately switch to a dark background, making it easier to check conversations in low-light environments.

If you want Google Chat to follow your system-wide theme, you can select “System default” instead. This will automatically match the app’s appearance to your device’s current theme setting.

Enable Dark Mode in Google Chat on iPhone and iPad

On iOS devices, Google Chat uses the system-wide appearance settings. If your iPhone or iPad is set to dark mode, Google Chat will automatically match the system’s theme.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.

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

Step 3: Select “Dark” under the Appearance section. All compatible apps, including Google Chat, will now use dark mode.

There is no in-app toggle for dark mode in Google Chat on iOS; the theme follows your device’s overall appearance settings.

Alternative Methods for Forcing Dark Mode

If you’re using a browser or device where native dark mode is not available, you can try alternative approaches:

  • On Chrome desktop, open Developer Tools (F12), go to More Tools > Rendering, and check “Enable automatic dark mode.”
  • Type chrome://flags/#enable-force-dark in the Chrome address bar, enable “Auto Dark Mode for Web Contents,” and restart the browser. This forces dark mode on most websites, including Google Chat.
  • Use browser extensions like Dark Reader for Firefox or Chrome to apply a dark theme to web pages that don’t offer native support. Keep in mind that third-party extensions may sometimes affect how content displays or interacts with other extensions.

These workarounds can help if you want a consistent dark mode experience across all Google services, but they may not be as reliable as the official dark mode options.

Switching Google Chat to dark mode improves comfort during extended chat sessions and can reduce eye strain. If you use multiple devices, remember to set dark mode individually on each platform for a consistent experience.