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The Pixel 2’s launcher has an automatic dark theme
June 18, 2025
ThePixel 2andPixel 2 XLwererecently announcedand grabbed headlines with features like an always-on display, anIP67 rating, and animproved camera. But, Google also made some quality of life changes that fans have been asking for. Since Google didn’t go out of its way to announce them, it has taken until the phones started getting into our hands to see them in action.
One such feature is an automatic dark theme. Android enthusiasts have been clamoring for a built-in dark theme for years and Google hasflirted with the feature before. Now, it looks like Google will use that dark theme when it detects darker tones in your wallpaper. The change happens automatically and it doesn’t look like there’s a way to trigger it manually besides changing your wallpaper. When it does kick on, it’ll theme your app drawer, folders, and quick settings.
While apps likeSubstratumoffer a deeper level of theming, it’s nice to have a built-in option too. This should pair well with the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL’s new OLED display. Since OLED displays simply turn off in areas that are displaying black, they’re more power-efficient and provide deeper blacks.
See also:Display showdown: AMOLED vs LCD vs Retina vs Infinity Display
This inclusion of a dark theme is just another step in Google bringing fans what they’ve been asking for. Two of the biggest criticisms ofPixel and Pixel XLwerethe speakers and lack of water resistance. Google addressed those issues with dual front-firing speakers and an IP67 rating. Now we’re getting a limited dark theme afterwhat feels like yearsof asking for one. Let’s hope Google can continue to expand on this in the future and bring us more control over the theme and perhaps deeper integration by theming apps too.
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