Google Keep Notes for Android readying dark mode [APK Insight]

The Material Theme revamp of Google Keep Notes last October was followed by complaints of the stark white background being too bright. A Googler at the time recognized the need for a dark mode, with version 5.19.111.06 today confirming development.

About APK Insight: In this ‘APK Insight’ post, we’ve decompiled the latest version of an application that Google uploaded to the Play Store. When we decompile these files (called APKs, in the case of Android apps), we’re able to see various lines of code within that hint at possible future features. Keep in mind that Google may or may not ever ship these features, and our interpretation of what they are may be imperfect. We’ll try to enable those that are closer to being finished, however, to show you how they’ll look in the case that they do ship. With that in mind, read on.

Dark Mode

Version 5.19.111.06 of Google Keep features a string to “Enable Dark Mode” and adds several “black” icon variants. We enabled the toggle in settings, and some aspects of the new theme. This includes a darkened search field and “Take a note” prompt at the bottom of the screen. Text and various icons are light gray against the new background.

Color-wise, these two parts are closer to a medium-dark gray rather than true black. However, these elements could be lighter to help differentiate between notes and the app’s background.

Meanwhile, note cards and the rest of the interface is still bright, with Google presumably finishing and polishing the look in upcoming releases. This is a good sign for Google’s apps, with many G Suite services following suit in recent weeks. However, the Googler on Reddit did tell users to “stay tuned” for a dark mode nearly five months ago.

How to update?

Google Keep Notes is rolling out now via the Play Store. We do not post APKs to download directly given the legal challenges associated with copyright and possibility of removal. Meanwhile, that model is perilous given Android App Bundles and Google Play’s Dynamic Delivery.

Thanks to JEB Decompiler, which some APK Insight teardowns benefit from.

Dylan contributed to this article