Snapchat Dark Mode on Android is a feature that has been long-anticipated among Android users. Almost since the release of the app, many people demanded a dark mode feature from the developers, as the dark mode can be found in many other social media apps and it is quite enjoyed by many users.
However, the way that the company decided to include Snapchat Dark Mode on Android into the app has drawn so much backlash because of the perceived unfairness between Android and iOS users, which we could argue that it did so rightfully.
Snapchat Dark Mode on Android will be exclusive to paid users
Snapchat, the beloved social media platform renowned for its ephemeral content and whimsical filters, has garnered a massive following worldwide. However, the recent development has sparked controversy among its Android user base as the highly anticipated ‘Dark Mode’ feature is made available behind a paywall.
Dark Mode has gained immense popularity in recent years, offering users a visually appealing and comfortable viewing experience, especially in low-light conditions. The news of Snapchat finally embracing Dark Mode was met with great enthusiasm from users on both iOS and Android platforms, as it seemed to be a step toward equalizing the user experience.
In addition, the fact that Snapchat Dark Mode on Android doesn’t require any effort from the company at all, as it is a built-in feature in Android phones, the frustration is adding to the unfairness of the situation.
You can only turn out the lights for $4
However, the excitement was short-lived when it was revealed that Android users would be required to pay a monthly fee of $4 to access the coveted Dark Mode feature through Snapchat+. In contrast, iOS users enjoyed the feature for free.
Hi there. Dark Mode for Android is only available to Snapchat+ subscribers at this time. To enable Dark Mode on Android with Snapchat+:
1. Tap the ‘Snapchat+’ banner in your Profile
2. Toggle ‘Dark Mode’ to the right to turn it on— Snapchat Support (@snapchatsupport) June 21, 2023
Rumors of this discrepancy circulated in April, with some Android users dismissing it as unfounded speculation. Sadly, recent developments have confirmed the truth, leaving Android Snapchat users feeling frustrated and neglected.
The Android Snapchat community argues that it is unfair for iOS users to freely enjoy Dark Mode while they are forced to pay for the same feature. Disappointment and anger have swelled among Android users, who expected an equitable experience across platforms.
Despite the mounting backlash, Snapchat has remained relatively quiet about the issue, further fueling the frustration of Android users. They hope that the company will address their concerns in a meaningful way and work toward finding a solution that appeases all parties involved.
In an era where inclusivity and equal access to features are highly valued, the decision to restrict Snapchat Dark Mode on Android behind a paywall on Android seems counterintuitive. Especially after coming up with great features such as Snapchat My AI, the company’s decision to put the dark mode feature behind a paywall seems also short-sighted. Snapchat, as a prominent social media platform, should consider the impact of such decisions on its user base and strive to provide a consistent and fair experience across different operating systems.
As the outcry continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether Snapchat will take prompt action to rectify the situation. Android users eagerly await a response from the company and hope for a resolution that will reinstate their confidence in Snapchat’s commitment to inclusivity and user satisfaction. On the Snapchat Support page, the company once again emphasizes that the situation with Android and dark mode is current only ‘at the time’, implying that the condition could change.
