Many apps – or at least digital devices – come with a dark mode (a lighting mode that uses light text in front of a dark background). Since many people grew up reading dark text on a white background, you may be wondering why this seemingly sudden obsession with this method of lighting. Blame the people who grew up with computers, or at least the companies that advertise them.
According to web design agency Digital Silk, brands focused on Generation Z (people born between 1997 and 2012) have been a driving force behind the mass adoption of dark modes in apps. Digital Silk CEO Gabriel Shaoolian said: “We have seen a steady increase in the number of brands requesting sleek, high-contrast designs that look native to mobile users. These brands are associated with industries such as fashion, fintech and gaming.
While dark mode is allegedly the preferred viewing/reading method for Gen Z browsers, Digital Silk admits that it’s not for everyone. The company recommends that UI designers design interfaces that can switch between (or support) a dark mode and a light mode, which the company says “ensures flexibility… while reinforcing a modern, cutting-edge identity.”
Dark mode isn’t just for Gen Z
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Since Gen Z grew up with a phone in their hands, they were obviously going to end up with certain quirks and preferences. The desire for a dark mode is part of it, but that doesn’t mean Gen Z is the only one getting something out of this style of lighting.
If we’re honest, dark mode has many advantages over the traditional method of reading black text on a white background. For example, dark mode is better for your eyes (at least in low-light situations) and this mode can help extend the battery life of many devices, especially OLED phones. These devices require less power to display dark colors than bright colors, and we don’t need to explain the importance of maintaining your mental health in a busy work environment.
App designers aren’t the only ones embracing widespread use of dark mode lighting (and the ability to switch to light mode). Many devices have a built-in dark mode or an analog mode. Phones are an obvious example since virtually everyone owns one, including Gen Z. Brands like Android are implementing color inversion to give users an easier way to scroll before bed without ruining their circadian rhythm. But if you want another form of portable entertainment before bed, the Switch 2 has plenty of relaxing games, as well as a dark mode if you think standard lighting settings are ruining your experience.
Dim is the new black
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While dark mode is great for phones and similar devices, not everything has a screen. So how do we provide all the benefits of dark mode on non-electronic objects, or at least on those that aren’t advanced enough to have a dark mode? The answer is smart lighting…and maybe smart lights.
If you’ve visited a modern office, especially one aimed at or designed by Gen Z workers, you may have noticed a very different lightscape. Gone are the bright, almost harsh fluorescent bulbs that inspired Backrooms; now, workspaces offer soft and comfortable lighting. The goal is to reduce distractions and increase worker concentration. More importantly, many people, especially Gen Z, associate this lighting style with better emotional well-being.
While you can provide these lighting settings using sunset lamps, LED strips, and salt lamps, smart lights can also achieve the same effect. Smart gadgets like the Gobee LED Smart Light bulbs offer a veritable rainbow of lightscapes to provide the perfect Gen Z-inspired work environment. Oh, and smart bulbs are generally more efficient than standard lighting, so adopting this lighting tip should not only improve employee comfort, but also significantly reduce electricity bills.
