Study Finds Dark Mode May Increase Battery Usage for Most Users

Research reveals that user behavior, such as increasing screen brightness, often negates dark mode's energy-saving potential.

BBC researchers found that 80% of participants increased screen brightness when using dark mode, offsetting any potential power savings.
Dark mode is more effective on OLED screens, which can turn off individual pixels for black backgrounds, but its benefits are limited on LCD displays.
The study highlights a 'rebound effect,' where users compensate for darker visuals by raising brightness levels, resulting in higher energy consumption.
Experts recommend reducing overall screen brightness as a more reliable method to conserve battery life and reduce energy use.
The findings challenge the assumption that dark mode is a universal solution for energy efficiency, calling for more nuanced sustainability strategies.