How To Turn On iOS 11 Smart Invert Feature

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A lot of iOS users have been hoping for an iOS dark mode feature since we first met iOS years and years ago. I’m sorry to say that there still is no public plan to make an iOS dark mode but, if you have been hoping for this feature, the iOS 11 Smart Invert feature may be the closest thing to a dark mode we can get until Apple officially brings us dark mode. With iOS 11 coming on September 19th, this may be a handy little trick you want to try out as soon as the update is pushed to your device. Of course, some of you that can’t wait are probably already running the iOS 11 Golden Master version.

Before I walk you through the really quick steps: let me explain what iOS 11 Smart Invert is. Essentially, it inverts the colors of iOS without affecting images and other content. The traditional color invert that some people with vision disabilities may use is still present but it has been renamed to “Classic Invert.” If you want a dark mode-style look within iOS system apps but you still want to keep the usual color of images and toggles then the iOS 11 Smart Invert feature is what you’re looking for.

So, how do you turn on iOS 11 Smart Invert to give your device that “dark mode” feel? It’s actually really easy. Go into your “Settings” app then tap “Accessibility.” You will then see a number of accessibility options. Tap on the option that says “Display Accomodations.” Then, tapping on the “Invert Colors” option will give you the choice of Smart Invert or Classic Invert. Again, Smart Invert will invert the colors on iOS 11 without affecting the colors of photos and other media. This is pretty much the closest thing to dark mode available in iOS right now.

The iOS 11 Smart Invert feature is actually pretty smart, as advertised. The iOS apps that already have a dark color scheme will not be inverted in order to maintain the dark look throughout. As mentioned, app icons, photos, and toggles will all remain their usual color. If you want a dark mode that’s easier on the eyes, according to some, then this is what you want. If you have always used color inversion in previous iOS versions due to a vision disability then you will likely want to stick with the “Classic Invert” option as the “Smart Invert” may not offer enough change to accommodate your needs.

This is a handy piece of information for those of you updating to iOS 11 in the coming days or picking up a new iPhone 8 or iPhone 8 Plus. What do you think of iOS 11 Smart Invert? Will you test it out? Of course, it’s no true dark mode but it’s all we’ve got for now.

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