Latest news with #darkmode
Android Authority
2 days ago
- Android Authority
Custom dark mode scheduling is reliable again in the latest Android 16 beta
Paul Jones / Android Authority TL;DR A bug in the Android 16 QPR1 beta 1 caused custom dark mode scheduling to stop working if you manually activated the mode via Quick Settings. The latest version of the beta has now fixed this issue. Although dark mode is great, there may be times of the day when you want to turn it off. Thankfully, Android gives you the option to set custom times of the day when you want the mode to turn on. When Android 16 QPR1 beta 1 rolled out, a bug made this feature stop working. Now it looks like the bug has been fixed with the latest update. Google rolled out Android 16 QPR1 beta 1 last month. As with any beta, there's an increased chance of running into bugs. One of the bugs that was discovered during this release was an issue with dark mode. Specifically, if you set a custom time for dark mode to kick on, going into Quick Settings to activate dark mode manually would cause custom scheduling to break. Yesterday, Google released Android 16 QPR1 beta 1.1, which includes a long list of fixes. According to one report, it appears this update has solved the problem. You can now manually activate dark mode in Quick Settings without it disrupting the custom schedule you set. In addition to fixing this bug, the update has also fixed a few other known issues. For example, crashes no longer happen when trying to open effects in wallpaper. Also, the missing approve button in Device Admin settings is no longer missing. Here's the full changelog for you to check out. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Android Authority
6 days ago
- General
- Android Authority
5 reasons why I switched from Chrome to Brave
Megan Ellis / Android Authority While I've wanted to de-Google my life for some time now, I keep hesitating about switching from Google products to other alternatives. Much of this is down to habit rather than there being no better options available, especially when it comes to my smartphone browser. But eventually, my grievances with Chrome on Android went past the usual privacy concerns, and I finally decided to make the switch to Brave instead. Since moving over to Brave, I've found that it was definitely the right choice for a number of reasons. What is the most important feature for a mobile browser? 0 votes Privacy protection. NaN % Ad-blocking. NaN % Accessibility features. NaN % Extension support. NaN % Something else (let us know in the comments). NaN % 1. The ability to force dark mode Megan Ellis / Android Authority Dark mode is an accessibility feature for me, since it's one of the ways I prevent my smartphone from triggering my chronic migraines. While Chrome has dark mode, you have to rely on extensions to force dark mode on web pages that don't support it. Since the mobile version of Chrome doesn't support extensions, this means I frequently encountered websites with a light theme while browsing on my smartphone. This is one of the first things that pushed me away from Chrome on my smartphone. I tried out a few of the best Android browsers, including Opera and Firefox, but I eventually settled on Brave. While the feature is still marked as experimental in Brave's settings, I haven't found any issues while using it. Sites load with a black background, and I haven't come across annoying issues like image colors being inverted or QR codes not showing correctly. 2. Brave's built-in ad blocker Megan Ellis / Android Authority Now, as a journalist, I understand the need for websites to run ads. But as an internet user, I know first-hand how the experience of many sites has degraded over the years — making some sites completely unusable. I used to frequently come across ads that took up more than half of my screen. I used to frequently come across ads that took up more than half of my screen, meaning that I could only read a few sentences at a time. Other times, the ads blocked important elements on the page. That's why Brave's built-in ad blocker appeals to me. It not only blocks intrusive ads but also other trackers that are used to build a browser fingerprint. At the same time, I can whitelist specific sites if I want to allow them to serve ads. Technically, you can block intrusive ads in the Chrome app, but the setting is a bit buried if you don't know where to look. It also relies on Chrome to correctly identify which ads are intrusive, which I don't really trust Google to do. 3. A reduced need for extensions Megan Ellis / Android Authority Because Brave's mobile browser has essential features built in, I don't need to rely as much on extensions. While browser extensions are a useful way to add extra functionality to your browser of choice, they also pose security and privacy risks — especially if they have access to sensitive permissions. While browser extensions are a useful way to add extra functionality to your browser of choice, they also pose risks. Even on desktop, I don't rely on many Chrome extensions; I mainly use Dark Reader to force dark mode and uBlock Origin Lite. As much as I love these extensions, I always worry about the data they have access to and if that could become compromised by a malicious actor. But Brave covers these features by having them built right into the browser. Brave even includes a firewall and VPN, however these are paid features. It also has a built-in translation tool and an AI assistant. While I personally avoid generative AI features on my smartphone, I'm glad that Brave offers privacy-focused alternatives to major services. 4. The availability of a unique search engine Megan Ellis / Android Authority When I saw that Brave offers its own search engine, I was a bit skeptical. After all, the last time I gave Bing a chance, it paled in comparison to Google Search. At the same time, Google's search results have become worse over time — loaded with AI hallucinations, sponsored links, irrelevant shopping links, and YouTube videos. At first, I wasn't impressed that Brave also uses AI to provide overviews for search results. But I actually found that Brave's AI overviews are more accurate than Google's, while also providing more citations. For example, when I search for whether migraines are a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) in South Africa, Brave correctly identifies that they aren't. Google, on the other hand, claims that migraines are covered under these benefits. I know from experience, and my neurologist, that Brave is correct. I find Brave's results are more focused and include higher quality sites in general. But even with more accurate AI summaries, I prefer to look at the results myself to verify any summaries. I find Brave's results more focused and include higher-quality sites in general. At the same time, I still get access to useful search widgets like currency conversions. I occasionally find that the search engine struggles with local results, but overall, I'm happy to use it as a Google Search replacement for most tasks. It also has the occasional sponsored link, but I've found these are much rarer compared to Google's results. 5. More control over privacy and experience settings Megan Ellis / Android Authority Besides providing more privacy-related features and built-in features than Chrome, I also like the fact that I can significantly tweak many of these settings in Brave. For example, if you don't want AI summaries in search, you can disable the feature. In Chrome on Android, however, you're stuck with these summaries unless you use a workaround to avoid AI Overviews or add '-ai' to the search query. While Brave enables a variety of privacy-focused features by default, you can adjust these according to your preferences. For example, you can choose to block JavaScript on the sites you visit — though I personally haven't done this because it can break some sites. You can also choose to block social media embeds, like embedded posts from Facebook and LinkedIn. While you can remove the site permission for JavaScript in Chrome's settings, blocking social media embeds is not available in the browser's privacy settings. There's also no way to directly block browser fingerprinting. Brave's media tab allows you to adjust the experience for YouTube. For example, I can choose to block distracting elements and recommended content on YouTube. I can even block YouTube Shorts. But these features don't exist in Chrome's settings. I still have to take the time to truly customize my experience on Brave, but I've already disabled certain elements like the Brave Rewards icon and sponsored images on my new tab page. This level of customization has proved incredibly useful. While I wasn't sure if I could truly break away from Chrome on my smartphone, Brave has made the transition easier than expected. This is thanks to its rich customization and variety of built-in features. So far, I don't regret the move at all.
Android Authority
24-05-2025
- Health
- Android Authority
My smartphone was giving me migraines, so I made these 5 changes
Megan Ellis / Android Authority Around 2022, I was diagnosed with chronic migraines. Unlike normal headaches, migraines come with a variety of neurological symptoms on top of the pain, such as nausea, light and sound sensitivity, and difficulty concentrating. As I took the time to figure out what my migraine triggers were, a few culprits stood out, including the time spent on my smartphone. The bright screen would often trigger migraines or worsen my existing symptoms — so I had to make a few changes to reduce the impact it had. Most of these changes also help reduce eye strain, so you can try them out even if you don't have migraines or headaches from screen use. Since changing these settings and features, I notice my eyes don't twitch after using my screen for long periods of time. But the biggest effect was on my migraine symptoms, with me experiencing fewer migraines triggered by screen use and ensuring I could still use my phone during mild migraines. What do you do to reduce migraines and eye strain from looking at your smartphone? 0 votes I set my phone to dark mode. NaN % I use a warm filter on my screen. NaN % I use a browser that forces dark mode. NaN % I reduce the brightness of my screen. NaN % Other (let us know in the comments!). NaN % 1. Enabling dark mode as the default Megan Ellis / Android Authority While there may be reasons why you might want to avoid dark mode, the feature is essential for me. I used to only use dark mode at night time when I was preparing for bed, but I've now made sure that dark mode is the default mode on all of my devices. In many ways, dark mode has become an accessibility feature for me. In many ways, dark mode has become an accessibility feature for me. Without it, I wouldn't be able to use my device without risking triggering a migraine or making an existing migraine worse. On my Oppo Reno 10 Pro+, I also have the option to set a dark mode style: Enhanced, Medium, or Gentle. Since Enhanced includes the most darkness, with a black background, I opted for this style. Switching over to dark mode on my phone also means that most of my apps are also in this mode. For the few that didn't switch over automatically, I manually toggled dark mode within the app settings. When I set up my S23 Ultra, dark mode was one of the first settings I enabled on my Samsung device. I also apply this mode, as well as other settings, to any device I review. 2. Switching to Eye Comfort mode Megan Ellis / Android Authority Eye Comfort, also known as Eye Protection or Night Light (depending on the exact OS you're using), is a blue light filter available on Android smartphones. I used to use a blue light filter app on my phone, but since Android introduced the ability to customize the filter setting, I can use the feature directly through my smartphone software. I also made sure to toggle Eye Comfort to the default setting, rather than limiting it to certain hours. Meanwhile, I always adjust the temperature to as warm as possible to improve my comfort when experiencing light sensitivity. Since my eyes adjust to this filter, it is not as distracting as it might seem. Since my eyes adjust to this filter, it is not as distracting as it might seem. However, the drawback is that it can affect the color accuracy of images you're viewing. But I prefer this caveat over the alternative of having my phone cause headaches and eye strain. 3. Switching out Chrome with Brave Megan Ellis / Android Authority I've been meaning to make the switch away from Chrome for a while now since I want to be less reliant on Google apps. But the lack of the ability to use my dark mode extension on Chrome's Android app was the final push I needed to stop using the app as my default mobile browser. Instead, I've switched to Brave, which allows me to force dark mode on web pages that use a light theme by default. While many websites support dark mode, there are still a few that only have a light theme. I noticed this the most when reading news or looking up recipes. The feature to force dark mode is available in Brave's Appearance settings, where you can choose to enable night mode.' So far, I haven't encountered any issues with getting sites to deliver a black background and white text, which has made the change to a different browser worthwhile. 4. Manually setting brightness Rushil Agrawal / Android Authority While Adaptive Brightness on Android is useful, I found that my light sensitivity often meant that the brightness my phone automatically set was simply too bright. This is especially a problem at night, when I set my screen to 0% brightness when I'm in bed. The main drawback of this is a slight loss of convenience. When I go outside, my phone screen doesn't automatically adjust, and I have to use muscle memory to turn the brightness back up. But the main benefit is that my phone doesn't automatically turn the brightness back up once I've turned it down. Manually adjusting the brightness has been worth the convenience trade-off. Sometimes I would be using my phone when I started to feel the familiar pain at the back of my eyes, and I'd realize my screen was too bright — but by this time it was already too late, the migraine cascade had started. So, manually adjusting the brightness has been worth the convenience trade-off. 5. Setting my phone to its maximum refresh rate Megan Ellis / Android Authority While most of my changes benefit eye strain in general, this one is a bit more specific to migraines. Motion sensitivity is a common symptom in migraines, and I find that certain motions on my smartphone can make my nausea worse. That's why I always ensure that my display refresh rate is set to my phone's maximum (120Hz). This higher refresh rate reduces stuttering on my screen while scrolling, which in turn helps me not feel as sick from the jittery motion. Of course, increasing my screen's refresh rate doesn't do anything when it comes to watching videos that trigger my motion sensitivity — like videos recorded with a shaky camera. But at least I can easily scroll through my phone's settings and Reddit threads without causing issues (as long as I don't scroll too fast). Making these changes not only reduced my eye strain and light sensitivity but also made my phone much less of a trigger for my migraines. When a migraine does hit, these changes allow me to still use my device when I'm stuck in bed and need to catch up on messages. If you find yourself having a similar experience or experiencing eye strain from screen use, I'd also suggest trying out different ways to reduce the impact of screen use — both on your smartphone and your computer.
Geeky Gadgets
22-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Apple's DARK MODE Secret: The Next Evolution Is WILD!
Apple's iOS ecosystem is in a constant state of evolution, with each update sparking interest and speculation among users and developers alike. One of the most intriguing possibilities currently being discussed is the rumored introduction of a revamped dark mode. This potential feature, alongside updates to default app settings, advancements in Siri, and critical security patches, represents Apple's ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience and device functionality. The video below from iDeviceHelp gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. Enhanced Default App Settings Apple has taken significant steps toward greater customization with the release of iOS 18.4, offering users more control over default app settings. For example, you can now set third-party apps, such as Google Translate, as your default for specific tasks like language translation. This shift reflects Apple's recognition of the growing demand for non-native apps in specialized scenarios. To configure a default app, navigate to the Settings menu, select the relevant category (e.g., Translation), and choose your preferred application. This streamlined process ensures that your selected app is automatically used for compatible tasks, eliminating the need for repeated manual adjustments. By empowering users with this level of customization, Apple is enhancing both convenience and efficiency. iOS Updates: What's Next? Apple's dedication to security, performance, and innovation is evident in its regular update cycle. Currently, iOS 18.5 is the latest version, with iOS 18.4.1 no longer being signed. This encourages users to upgrade to the latest version to benefit from critical security patches and bug fixes. Looking ahead, the iOS 19 developer beta is expected to launch on June 9, 2025, providing developers with early access to new features and tools. The final public release is anticipated in September 2025, aligning with the debut of the next iPhone lineup. In the interim, updates such as iOS 18.5.1 will likely focus on addressing vulnerabilities and improving system stability. These updates underscore Apple's commitment to maintaining a secure and seamless user experience. Siri Gets Smarter in iOS 19 Apple is reportedly working on substantial upgrades to Siri as part of the iOS 19 update. These enhancements aim to make Siri more intuitive, contextually aware, and capable of handling complex tasks, potentially positioning it as a competitor to advanced AI models like OpenAI's ChatGPT. The improved Siri is expected to include: More advanced natural language processing for smoother and more human-like interactions. Enhanced task execution, such as drafting emails, generating summaries, or setting up detailed schedules. Deeper integration with third-party apps, expanding its functionality and versatility. These updates reflect Apple's focus on using artificial intelligence to improve productivity and user convenience. By making Siri a more versatile and responsive digital assistant, Apple aims to enhance its role in everyday tasks and interactions. Rumors of a New Dark Mode One of the most exciting rumors surrounding iOS is the potential introduction of a redesigned dark mode. Recent updates to Apple's developer tools and Finder icons have fueled speculation about this feature, which could combine the current dark mode with Night Shift functionality. The primary goal would be to reduce eye strain during nighttime use by incorporating warmer tones and softer contrasts. If implemented, the new dark mode might include: A redesigned home screen featuring adaptive, tinted icons that adjust to lighting conditions. Dynamic adjustments to screen brightness and contrast based on ambient lighting. Improved visual appeal and user comfort, particularly in low-light environments. This rumored feature aligns with Apple's emphasis on user well-being and could significantly enhance the way users interact with their devices after dark. While details remain speculative, the potential for a more dynamic and adaptive dark mode is generating considerable excitement among iOS enthusiasts. Security Patches: A Priority for Apple Apple's proactive approach to security is evident in its consistent release of updates and patches. These updates address vulnerabilities that could compromise user data or device performance. For instance, iOS 18.5 includes critical fixes for known issues, making sure that devices remain protected against emerging threats. By keeping your device updated, you can safeguard personal information and enjoy a smoother, more secure user experience. Apple's dedication to security not only protects its users but also reinforces trust within its ecosystem. This ongoing focus on security highlights Apple's commitment to providing a safe and reliable platform for its users. The Future of iOS As Apple continues to refine its iOS platform, the rumored introduction of a redesigned dark mode stands out as a potential enhancement that could redefine the user experience. Alongside smarter Siri capabilities, enhanced default app settings, and robust security measures, this feature could offer significant benefits, particularly for those who frequently use their devices in low-light conditions. While much of the speculation remains unconfirmed, the ongoing evolution of iOS demonstrates Apple's dedication to innovation and user-centric design. With each update, Apple moves closer to delivering a more intuitive, secure, and personalized experience for its users. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on iOS. Source & Image Credit: iDeviceHelp Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
