Getting iTunes in Dark Mode on Windows 10 isn’t exactly rocket science, but it’s kind of weird how it’s not just a toggle like in some apps. This feature isn’t fully baked into iTunes, especially on older versions. Basically, if you’re tired of staring at that bright, glaring interface, switching to dark theme can be a small but satisfying upgrade. It’s easier on your eyes, especially if you’re often listening late at night or in dim rooms. Plus, if your Windows 10 is already set to dark mode system-wide, you might want iTunes to follow suit. The process, though simple, involves diving into preferences and switching some options around. So, here’s a guide with some added tech details — because of course, Windows apps tend to hide settings, making it a little tricky at times.
How to Put iTunes in Dark Mode on Windows 10
Open iTunes and check your version
First up, start iTunes and make sure it’s up-to-date. Outdated versions sometimes don’t have the latest UI options. You can check your version by clicking Help > About iTunes in the menu bar. On Windows 10, if you’re using the Microsoft Store version, open the Store app, click the three dots, then Downloads and Updates to see if there’s an update available. Not sure why, but sometimes Dark Mode seems to work better when you’re on the latest iTunes build, which is a bit frustrating, but hey, that’s life.
Access the preferences through the menu
Once iTunes is current, click on the Edit menu at the top (or the hamburger icon if you’re on a newer setup) and select Preferences. This brings up the ugly little window where everything happens. Note: on some setups, this can be a bit laggy or unpredictable, so patience is key. Easy to miss if you’re not familiar with the menu layout, but it’s there—usually under the General tab, which is where appearance stuff lives.
Find the Appearance setting
In the Preferences window, go to the General tab. Look for the Appearance section. Here’s where it gets weird: on most newer versions, you’ll see options like Light and Dark. If you don’t see these options, double-check if your iTunes version supports it or if it’s a regional build. Selecting Dark switches the theme to a sleek, darker palette. It’s kind of weird because on some setups, you have to restart iTunes or sometimes just toggle it off and on again for it to take effect. Not sure why it works that way, but it does.
Apply changes and enjoy your new look
Click OK and watch your interface transform. If nothing happens immediately, try closing and reopening iTunes—sometimes, a restart is needed. On some systems, iTunes respects your overall Windows theme setting. If that’s the case, making sure Windows is in dark mode might automatically change iTunes too, but it’s not entirely reliable. Still, worth a shot—go to Settings > Personalization > Colors > Choose your color > Dark. A little system-wide consistency never hurts, right?
Tips for getting dark mode to stick in iTunes on Windows 10
- Check your iTunes version — newer versions tend to have more consistent dark mode support.
- If dark mode isn’t sticking, try toggling Windows 10’s system-wide dark theme; sometimes iTunes uses that as a hint.
- Explore the preferences again after you update Windows or iTunes, because settings can get weird after updates.
- On some setups, you might need to restart the computer for dark mode tweaks to fully take effect.
- For the adventurous, consider using third-party tools or custom theme patches, but that’s more complicated and can break things.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does changing to dark mode make iTunes run faster?
Haha, nope. Dark mode is purely visual. Still annoying how sometimes the theme option is flaky or doesn’t show up. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
Can I revert to light mode easily?
Absolutely, just go back into Preferences > General > Appearance and select Light. The interface flips back in a snap, usually without needing a restart.
Why doesn’t dark mode show up on my older iTunes version?
Older versions just don’t support it officially. If you’re on something super old, the feature may never appear, and you’ll have to update to a newer build. Because, again, Apple loves to keep things updated—or not.
Will dark mode save my phone’s battery life on a Windows laptop?
It might help a tiny bit, especially on OLED screens, but on typical laptops, it’s mostly about reducing eye strain, not about saving battery.
Can I customize the dark theme colors?
Not really.iTunes only gives you the option to toggle between pre-set themes. So, no custom palettes or anything fancy.
Wrap-up
Lighting up iTunes in dark mode is kind of a pain sometimes, but when it works, it’s a nice upgrade. Looks cooler, feels easier on the eyes, and frankly, it makes the app feel a little more modern. Just be prepared for some trial and error, especially with older versions. Keeping everything updated and toggling Windows dark mode can help sync things up a bit. Still, once it’s set, a simple restart or toggle can keep it looking sleek. Fingers crossed this helps a few folks ditch the glare and enjoy their tunes in style.
Summary
- Open iTunes and check for updates.
- Go to Edit > Preferences.
- Head to the General tab.
- Select Dark under Appearance.
- Click OK, restart if needed.
- Optionally, enable Windows 10 system-wide dark mode.