Revive your Dark Sky on Android with these weather apps

Apple acquired Dark Sky in 2020, resulting in the shutdown of its iPhone and Android apps. However, iPhone users can still access some of the beloved "hyper-local" features of Dark Sky through the stock Weather app. But what about Android users? The functionality still exists, you just need to know where to find it.

Android users have been missing out on the benefits of the Dark Sky API for their weather apps since its support ended on March 31, 2023. However, Apple's release of the "WeatherKit" API in 2022 has bridged the gap by offering similar weather information to that of Dark Sky, albeit not identical. The good news for Android developers is that they can now use the WeatherKit API in their weather apps. As a result, finding Android apps that incorporate WeatherKit as a data source is all we need to do.

Android Weather Apps With WeatherKit

At the time of writing in April 2023, there are a handful of Android weather apps that include WeatherKit as a data source. Some offer it for free, others put it behind a paid subscription.

- Forecaster

Forecaster is an intuitive weather application that displays hourly weather conditions through color-coded bars for each day. This visual representation allows users to easily distinguish between good and bad weather without the need to analyze detailed forecasts. While it may be a basic application, its straightforward design makes it user-friendly for all. WeatherKit Data Source: Free.

Precipitation Alerts: No

- Real Weather

The design of Real Weather aims to mirror that of the Apple Weather app on both the main app and home screen widgets. Though the weather components cannot be expanded, the overall aesthetic is pleasing and the app allows for multiple location tracking. Additionally, WeatherKit is the sole source of data for this app, which is available for free. However, it does not provide precipitation alerts.

- Weawow

Weather enthusiasts have long trusted Weawow for accurate forecasts, and the app has now added WeatherKit as a data source option. The app boasts stunning visuals, thanks to its vast collection of photos sourced from different corners of the world. These images display the current weather conditions, providing an instant glimpse of what to expect. In addition to the captivating visuals, the app is packed with advanced features to keep you informed of the latest weather updates.

WeatherKit Data Source: Free

Precipitation Alerts: No

- Today Weather

Today Weather is a weather app that has been around for a while and has integrated WeatherKit support. Its interface is sleek and uncluttered, and it allows for the inclusion of photos to depict current conditions. You can even snap and share photos with other users. Unlike other apps, Today Weather offers alerts for anticipated precipitation, a feature that was previously only available on Dark Sky. However, accessing WeatherKit data requires a paid upgrade.

Precipitation Alerts: Yes

- Weather Today

Weather Today is a sleek and modern weather app that features Google’s Material You theming. The app is easy to navigate and boasts a clean interface, despite offering a plethora of weather information. Users can choose from several data sources, including WeatherKit, which is available as a paid upgrade. While the app does not currently offer precipitation alerts, it remains a great option for those seeking a visually appealing and user-friendly weather app.

These five weather apps are helping Android users enjoy the features of Dark Sky. While they may not be exact replicas, they still provide valuable information. The only downside is the absence of precipitation alerts, but this could change as more weather apps adopt the WeatherKit API. And for iPhone users, they too may have to rely on alternative weather apps in the future.