Why does Facebook keep taking Dark Mode off?

Facebook Dark Mode has been officially restored to Android phones, but the picture isn't so clear when it comes to iPhones.

As of May 27, Facebook claims everything is fine with the Android app. From the looks of comments on Twitter (opens in new tab), that's accurate. But Facebook's statement to Tom's Guide didn't mention iOS, and iPhone users seem to still be having problems.

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As of the time of writing, Dark Mode is present on my iPhone 12 Pro,  where it always has been, in its own section in the Settings and Privacy menu. The app version was 319.0.0.38.119 (292363515), which seems to be fine from other accounts (via TechRadar (opens in new tab)), whereas older "319" versions and newer ones such as 320.0.0.36.122 (293873823) are suffering from the problem.

If you have lost Dark Mode on your Facebook app, there is a fix you can try, which we've detailed below.

How to fix the Facebook Dark Mode problem on iPhone

1. Uninstall the app, then re-install it. Do this by holding the app until you get the option to "Remove app," then "Delete app" on the next menu that appears.

Why does Facebook keep taking Dark Mode off?

(Image credit: Future)

2. Go to the Apple App Store (opens in new tab) and redownload Facebook.

3. Log back in and check if Dark Mode has reappeared. You'll find it by tapping the three lines/"hamburger" icon in the bottom menu bar, then scrolling down to Settings & Privacy. Dark Mode should be the fourth option. If it's returned, great, you're good to go! 

(Image credit: Facebook)

4. If you still don't see Dark Mode listed, then continue by closing the app. Do this by either double tapping the Home button or swiping up from the bottom of the screen and pausing, then swiping the Facebook window away to dismiss it.

(Image credit: Future)

5. Next, go into Settings, then scroll downwards until you find Facebook among your other apps.

6. Find the "Upload HD" toggle under the video section, and make sure it's turned on. Do the same with the "Upload HD" toggle under the photo section.

(Image credit: Future)

7. Re-open the Facebook app. You should now have access to Dark Mode again by going to Menu (via the button with three horizontal lines at the bottom of the app), then selecting "Settings and Privacy", then "Dark mode".

(Image credit: Future)

It's not clear why changing your photo and video upload settings has this effect, but it can work if you're desperate to get Dark Mode back on your Facebook app as soon as possible.

Facebook has had dark mode available as an option for desktop, iOS and Android users since 2020, but some users are posting that they're now unable to switch the feature on.

The color scheme can be more manageable on the eyes when scrolling through your newsfeed or a set of videos, especially at night.

Other apps from Meta have also benefited from dark modes such as Instagram and WhatsApp, but Facebook seems to switch the feature off from time to time.

We've reached out to Facebook for comment to find out why it's been switched off for certain users.

How to check if you have dark mode

Why does Facebook keep taking Dark Mode off?

(Image credit: TechRadar)

Dark mode can be difficult to find on iOS or Android, as it's not as visible as other features. On the main screen, go to the 'Menu' icon on the navigation bar, then Settings & Privacy, scroll down to Preferences, and Dark Mode should be there.

(Image credit: TechRadar)

However, for the desktop it's an easier affair by simply going to the arrow on the top right, selecting 'Display and Accessibility', and switching on dark mode.

There hasn't been an explanation from Meta as to why it's decided to switch off the feature for some, nor is there a reason regardless to do it. It's a useful feature, and it won't be a strain on the company or the apps it offers, so the deactivation is a baffling decision.

For the time being, we recommend removing the app from your Android or iOS device, reinstalling it, and see whether that makes dark mode return as an option.

How do I permanently change my Facebook to Dark?

Follow the steps below. On Facebook Home, tap the hamburger menu icon found in the bottom-right section. Select Settings & Privacy in the main menu, then choose Dark Mode from the expanded menu. Finally, select On or System to enable dark mode.

Why did my dark mode turn off by itself?

It happens if you have dark mode scheduled. Make sure to disable "turn on automatically" option.

Why does my dark mode keep turning off iPhone?

But if you want to stop dark mode from turning off without your consent, here's how to do that. Start by opening the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. Next, scroll down, and then tap Display & Brightness. Underneath the Appearance section, turn off the switch next to Automatic.