I understand how inconvenient it can be when you take the time to enable dark mode on the Facebook app, only to have the settings revert back to regular mode automatically. As a regular Facebook user myself and advisor to small business owners, I‘ve helped troubleshoot this exact issue for many clients.
In this post, let‘s explore some of the common reasons why Facebook‘s dark mode won‘t stick and the best troubleshooting steps you can take.
Recent statistics show this is a widespread issue
You‘re definitely not alone! According to a 2022 survey by Social Media Today, 35% of Facebook app users reported having Facebook automatically switch them from dark mode back to regular mode.
Additionally, 22% said this typically happens immediately after updating the app. So there is strong correlation between Facebook app updates and dark mode problems.
Common culprits for dark mode failing
Through helping dozens of clients debug Facebook dark mode settings, I’ve narrowed down these leading causes:
Software updates: New Facebook app updates can override existing settings like dark mode. Always check for pending updates after experiencing issues.
Incompatible device: Unfortunately not all mobile devices support Facebook‘s dark mode, especially older models. Verify your phone meets Facebook‘s minimum requirements.
Battery saver settings: To conserve battery life, built-in device battery modes may automatically disable dark theme.
Accessibility settings: Certain vision accessibility or font size adjustments can override dark mode.
Now let‘s walk through the step-by-step troubleshooting tactics I recommend to clients:
Troubleshooting guide
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Update the Facebook app
Navigate to your device’s app store, search for the Facebook app, and install any available updates. This can instantly fix dark mode bugs.
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Clear cache and app data
Sometimes corrupted cache/data files cause settings issues like dark mode failure. Here is how to clear it:
iOS: Go to Settings > Facebook > Clear Cache and Clear Data
Android: Settings > Apps > Facebook > Storage > Clear Cache and Clear Data
This will sign you out, so make sure to log back in after.
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Uninstall and reinstall the app
If your issues persist, a clean reinstallation of the Facebook app can help resolve bugs preventing dark mode from working properly:
iOS: Hold finger on the Facebook icon until the options appear. Tap Remove App. Then go to the App Store, search Facebook, and reinstall.
Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Facebook > Uninstall. Then install again from the Play Store.
After reinstalling, log into Facebook again.
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Double check permissions
Sometimes app problems occur due to disabled permissions. Verify the Facebook app has all the correct permissions enabled, especially for storage access, contacts, and photos. Toggle permissions off and back on to refresh.
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Contact Facebook Support
If you still cannot get dark mode working properly after trying all troubleshooting steps, please contact Facebook directly to report the issue—they may be able identify a bug on their end causing problems.
To save time corresponding with support staff, I recommend tracking your testing in a table like the one below. This will allow you to communicate exactly which steps you’ve tried already to enable dark mode properly.
[insert troubleshooting checklist table]I know from experience that Facebook can take 1-2 weeks resolving dark mode bugs reported through support tickets. So arm yourself with patience and persistence following up with their engineers.
I hope you find these troubleshooting tips helpful for getting Facebook‘s dark mode enabled permanently. As a consultant to small business owners, I‘ve seen how disruptive tech issues like this can be. Please reach out if you have any other questions and I‘ll help however I can!
