dark theme Archives

AppWizard

April 23, 2026

Samsung Messages is dying — here’s the open-source alternative I’m replacing it with

Samsung Messages will be discontinued in July 2026. The author switched from Samsung Messages to Google Messages but found it lacking in customization options and preferred a simpler experience. They discovered Fossify Messages, a free and open-source messaging app that offers essential features without distractions, and found it to be a suitable replacement. Fossify Messages allows selective text copying, offers security options like PIN or biometric authentication, and supports local backups. While the author appreciates Fossify Messages, they still recognize the strengths of Samsung Messages, such as chat organization and integration with Galaxy devices.

Winsage

April 23, 2026

Microsoft has been trying to fix Windows 11’s annoying white flash bug in File Explorer for over 2 years: Has it finally done it?

Microsoft has addressed the white flash issue in File Explorer when using dark mode in the latest Release Preview build of Windows 11. This problem, which has persisted for over two years despite previous claims of fixes, has now been resolved with the latest changelog stating that the white flash is removed when launching File Explorer in dark mode if set to launch to This PC or when resizing the details pane. The complexity of File Explorer, which combines modern and legacy UI frameworks, has contributed to these graphical glitches. Although the white flash issue has been fixed, some areas, like File Properties, still do not support dark mode, but improvements are planned for future updates.

BetaBeacon

April 15, 2026

This powerful PC game emulator for Android just got a big update

Winlator v11.0 update enhances Windows-on-Android emulation experience with improved hardware and software compatibility. The update includes Mesa Turnip drivers v26.1.0 for better Vulkan performance on Adreno 8-series GPUs, an experimental OpenGL wrapper called Gladio for MediaTek and Exynos chips, Wine 10.10 and Box64 v0.4.0 for improved stability, a new HUD mode for performance monitoring, Light/Dark theme engine, and enhanced input controls. The update is available for download on GitHub, aiming to make Windows-on-Android emulation more accessible and enjoyable for users.

AppWizard

April 13, 2026

WhatsApp Web themes might soon come to save us from boring gray bubbles

Meta is testing 49 chat themes for WhatsApp Web, introducing customization options for the desktop interface. The themes will change not only the background but also the color of message bubbles. These custom themes will be local to each user, meaning that the design choices will not be visible to others. There is no official release date for this feature, and it has not yet appeared in beta versions. Users are advised to check the Settings menu under the Theme section for updates.

Winsage

April 7, 2026

Notepad (25H2)

Microsoft has transformed its Notepad text editor in Windows 11, introducing features such as a tabbed user interface, basic session state management, a "Recent files" option, and AI-driven writing tools. Notepad now supports Markdown markup language for light formatting and includes customizable settings for themes, fonts, document opening preferences, and the ability to disable certain features. Users can access AI writing tools through a Copilot button, which requires a Microsoft account and an active Microsoft 365 subscription. The classic Notepad version is still available, allowing users to revert to the previous interface, although it cannot be set as the default app for text files.

Winsage

March 30, 2026

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 dark mode upgrade, with plans for third-party apps and Registry Editor

Windows 11 has introduced a dark theme that has received positive feedback, but certain legacy pop-ups, like the Properties tab, still use a light background. Microsoft is working on a dark-themed Properties tab and aims to enhance the dark mode experience across the operating system, as confirmed by senior executive Marcus Ash. He mentioned that there are no specific timelines for updates to legacy tools like the Registry Editor, but improvements are being made for consistency in dark mode across system-level dialogs. Third-party applications that do not adopt dark mode will continue to display in light mode, as Microsoft cannot enforce changes on them. Users currently experience inconsistencies with dark mode, particularly with legacy features that still show a light background. In December 2025, Microsoft rolled out dark mode for most operational dialogs, including those for file deletion and error notifications. Dark mode is now visible in various pop-ups, such as notifications for insufficient disk space and Recycle Bin confirmations. Microsoft is also testing dark mode in Windows Run (legacy).

Winsage

March 28, 2026

Microsoft design chief shares new update on Windows 11’s dark mode

Microsoft is working on enhancing the dark mode in Windows 11, with Marcus Ash, the head of Windows Design and Research, indicating efforts to expand the dark theme across more areas of the operating system. Improvements are being made to legacy system panels and dialogs to enhance consistency, although no specific timeline for updates, including for Regedit, has been provided. Additionally, Microsoft is responding to user feedback by refining the user experience, which includes plans to improve the file explorer and reintroduce taskbar customization options. Currently, dark mode is only partially integrated, with key features like File Properties in File Explorer, Regedit, and Disk Management lacking support.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

Android 17 Beta 3 finally brings the desktop multitasking we’ve been waiting for

Android 17 Beta 3 introduces significant multitasking capabilities with the Bubbles system, allowing users to run applications in floating windows. Screen recording features a floating control panel for editing, sharing, and deleting recordings. Quick Settings have been simplified with distinct toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data. This beta version is available for Pixel 6 and newer devices, with finalized SDK and NDK APIs for developers. The Bubbles system allows users to open apps in floating windows, and enhancements for foldable devices include dragging icons for better multitasking. Users can now disable dark mode for individual apps, and privacy features include adaptive password visibility based on input methods and a new Location Button for temporary location access.

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

Android 17 Beta 3 lets you control which apps are forced into dark theme

In Android 17 Beta 3, Google introduces a feature allowing users to control the "Expanded" dark theme settings for individual applications. This feature enables apps that do not support dark mode to adopt a darker aesthetic while allowing users to disable forced dark mode for specific apps that may have readability issues. Users can access this feature through Settings > Display & touch > Dark theme > Expanded.

Winsage

March 26, 2026

Microsoft provides much needed update on Windows 11’s dark mode in refreshing moment of transparency

Marcus Ash, head of Windows Design and Research at Microsoft, stated that the development of Windows 11's dark mode is ongoing, with efforts to expand it across various parts of the operating system, including legacy user interface elements. He mentioned no specific timelines for implementing dark mode in Regedit. Microsoft is also working on a comprehensive plan to improve the overall user interface and experience of Windows 11.