Snapchat criticized for making dark mode on Android a paid feature, may now offer it for free

Snapchat recently launched a variety of features for premium subscribers, including custom icons, unique badges, early access to new features, and the capability to designate a #1 BFF. However, arguably the most controversial decision among the new features for Snapchat+ was the choice to include dark mode on Android as a paid feature. This decision has been criticized by users of the operating system who highlight that most apps provide this feature for free.

Reports suggest that Snapchat is addressing the criticism, with indications that dark mode is now available to users without a Snapchat+ subscription. This information was shared by the renowned Twitter user named Mishaal Rahman, who is a member of an Android user community. Despite this, Snapchat's support page still lists dark mode as a feature exclusive to Snapchat+ subscribers, possibly due to its initial introduction as an "early access" feature.

Critics have also pointed out that Snapchat's dark mode, which was launched in April, lacks certain features available in other apps. For instance, it doesn't follow the system-wide user preference and doesn't automatically switch between light and dark modes. Instead, users must manually change between the modes. To use dark mode, users need to have the latest version of the app, though the feature may take a few weeks to be available to all users.