Latest Google Pixel Update Breaks Automatic Dark Mode — Here’s What’s Going On

Dark mode has long been a highly requested feature by Android users, and over time, it’s become a standard part of most apps and the Android system itself. One particularly useful feature in Android is the ability to automatically switch between light and dark themes based on the time of day — but in the latest Pixel update, that function appears to have broken.

Following the March 2025 update for Google Pixel devices, many users started noticing that the automatic dark theme no longer works as expected. Typically, when this feature is turned on, your phone uses your location to determine sunrise and sunset times, switching to dark mode at dusk and back to light mode at dawn. However, this automatic behavior has suddenly stopped working for many.

The issue first came to light in early March, when users realized the theme wouldn’t change unless they adjusted it manually — defeating the purpose of the automation altogether.

Google has since rolled out its April 2025 update for Pixel phones, but unfortunately, the problem persists. We've personally observed this issue newly affecting devices like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and reports are still popping up on Google’s forums and Reddit from frustrated users.

It's unclear when (or if) a permanent fix is coming. In the meantime, some users have discovered a workaround: creating a custom automation routine ("mode") to toggle dark mode manually at specific times.

Are you facing this issue after the April update? Let us know your experience in the comments below.