Apple Watch: switch maps from dark to light mode

Thanks for getting back to us, iPAT_DE.

After looking into this further, it does seem like this is expected behavior for using Maps on your Apple Watch. The support article below that refers to using Maps with your watch include images that show the Maps with a dark appearance. In this case, we'd recommend submitting your feedback using the link we previously provided if this is something you'd like to possibly see in a future version of watchOS.

Get directions on Apple Watch

Take care.

Got it, iPAT_DE.

In this case since it is showing as dark while in the overall map view on your Apple Watch and not just for directions, we'd recommend making sure both your Apple Watch and iPhone are completely up to date with the latest software available. If you continue to notice the same behavior, it may be best to reach out to Apple Support so they can look into this with you further.

Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch 

Update your Apple Watch 

Get Support

Take care.

I’m on 8.0 and it’s only dark for maps

Hi there iPAT_DE,

Thanks for reaching out to Apple Support Communities. We understand you're wanting some more information on switching the Maps app on your Apple Watch to Light Mode and see you came from a helpful support article. Is your iPhone currently set on Light Mode? And do you notice that your Maps are always showing in Dark Mode at all times of day? It's possible that this may be expected behavior on your device as Maps may change to Dark Mode depending on time of day or what app you are using. You can use the link below to provide feedback to Apple on this feature if you'd like.

Product Feedback - Apple

Best regards.

I’m having the same problems. Apple Watch 6. Maps were working fine in light mode until I updated the latest iOS two days ago and maps now stuck in dark mode any time of the day! I even did a full reset on the Watch. Still having the same issues. Got to be a bug in the latest update. Please sort this out Apple!!

Correct! That bug was in the first release 8.0 already and also in the subsequent 8.0.1 release. As I saw the notification of the beta 8.3 release already, my hope is on the 8.2 or 8.3 to have it fixed.

Poor responses all round. Clearly this is an issue with the new software update. The question is will apple allow us to use maps on our watch without dark mode?

Mine was always light before I updated to the latest iOS. Yeah I don’t think Apple really cares tbh

Same issue on my watch.

Same issue on my watch 5, watchos 8

Same here. After update to 8.0.1 the issue has occurred. Please fix!

Same here. Using Watch OS 8.1 and still dark Maps. Not using Dark Mode on the iPhone at all. Set to Light.