Earlier this month, KTracy.com added a feature to load the website in "dark mode" if the user's browser or operating system (OS) is using dark mode. We announced this feature on the main page, and it created a lot of confusion among our visitors who wanted to know why we created this feature and how to enable dark mode.

The Benefits of Using Dark Mode

Dark mode has become increasingly popular across various devices and operating systems. This feature changes the default light background to a darker color scheme, typically black or dark gray. The benefits of using dark mode include:

• Reduced Eye Strain: Dark mode can help reduce eye strain, especially in low-light environments, by minimizing the amount of blue light emitted from screens.
• Improved Battery Life: On devices with OLED or AMOLED screens, dark mode can save battery life because darker pixels require less power. According to research from Purdue University, using dark mode will decrease battery usage by anywhere from 3% to 9%.
• Enhanced Readability: For some users, dark mode can improve readability and reduce glare, making it easier to focus on the screen for extended periods.
• Better Sleep: By reducing blue light exposure, dark mode may help improve sleep quality by minimizing disruptions to the circadian rhythm. Take a look at this study on the influence of blue light on sleep.

Now, let's dive into the step-by-step instructions for enabling dark mode on various platforms.

How to Enable Dark Mode in Windows

1. Open Settings: Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Personalization: Click on "Personalization" in the Settings menu.
3. Select Colors: In the left sidebar, click on "Colors."
4. Choose Dark Mode: Under the "Choose your color" dropdown menu, select "Dark" to enable dark mode.

How to Enable Dark Mode in MacOS

1. Open System Settings: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select "System Settings."
2. Go to Appearance: In the sidebar, click on "Appearance."
3. Select Dark Mode: Choose "Dark" to enable dark mode. You can also select "Auto" to switch between light and dark modes based on the time of day.

How to Enable Dark Mode in Android

1. Open Settings: Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon to open the Settings menu.
2. Navigate to Display: Tap on "Display" in the Settings menu.
3. Enable Dark Mode: Look for "Dark Mode" or "Dark Theme" and toggle it on. Some devices may offer additional options to schedule dark mode based on the time of day.

How to Enable Dark Mode in iOS

1. Open Settings: Tap on the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Go to Display & Brightness: Scroll down and tap on "Display & Brightness."
3. Select Dark Mode: Choose "Dark" to enable dark mode. You can also set it to "Automatic" to switch between light and dark modes based on the time of day.

How to Enable Dark Mode in Ubuntu

1. Open Settings: Press the Super key (Windows key) and start typing "Settings" to search for the Settings application.
2. Navigate to Appearance: In the Settings application, go to the "Appearance" section.
3. Dark Mode: Choose the "Dark" option from the theme dropdown menu to enable dark mode.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of dark mode across all your devices, making your screen time more comfortable and visually appealing.