Introduction

Dark mode has become an essential accessibility and usability feature in modern applications. With the Spring ’26 preview release, Salesforce significantly expands dark mode availability across more Salesforce editions, making it accessible beyond Starter Suite orgs.

Admins can now enable dark mode for SLDS 2 themes, giving users the option to switch to a darker appearance that reduces eye strain and improves readability, especially in low-light environments.

Important: Dark mode is a beta feature. General availability is not guaranteed, and usage is subject to Salesforce Beta Services Terms.

What’s New in Spring ’26?

Previously, dark mode was available only in Salesforce Starter Suite orgs.

Dark mode is now available in:

● Free Suite
● Pro Suite
● Professional Edition
● Enterprise Edition
● Developer Edition

This update makes dark mode accessible to admins, developers, and enterprise users across a wide range of orgs.

What Is Dark Mode in Salesforce?

Dark mode changes the visual appearance of the Salesforce UI by using:

● Light-colored text
● Softer UI elements
● Dark backgrounds

It is built on Salesforce Lightning Design System 2 (SLDS 2) and provides a foundation for:

● Richer theming
● Better component customization
● Improved accessibility

Why This Feature Matters

Dark mode is more than a visual preference. It improves both productivity and accessibility.

Key benefits include:

● Reduced eye strain in low-light conditions
● Improved readability during long work sessions
● Support for modern UI customization
● Better experience for admins and developers
● Alignment with accessibility best practices

Where Does This Feature Apply?

Dark mode works with:

● Lightning Experience
● SLDS 2 themes only

Dark mode is not supported in:

● SLDS 1 themes
● Some Salesforce apps that are not yet fully optimized

How to Enable Dark Mode (Admin Demo Steps)

Step-by-Step Setup

● Go to Setup
● In Quick Find, search for Themes and Branding
● Click Themes and Branding
● Do one of the following:
● Click New Theme, or
● Click the dropdown next to an existing SLDS 2 theme and select Edit
● Scroll to the Dark Mode section
● Enable Let users enable dark mode
● Save and activate the theme

Dark mode is now enabled for your org.

How Users Switch to Dark Mode

Once dark mode is enabled by an admin:

● User clicks their profile image
● Selects Appearance
● Chooses one of the following options:
● Light
● Dark
● System default (if available)

The UI updates instantly based on the selected preference.

Real-World Use Case

A developer working late hours switches Salesforce to dark mode to:

● Reduce eye fatigue
● Improve focus
● Maintain visual consistency with other development tools

At the same time, another user can continue using light mode. Each user’s preference is preserved independently.

Current Limitations

● Feature is in beta or pilot
● Not all Salesforce apps are fully optimized for dark mode
● Some custom components may require design adjustments
● Behavior may change before general availability

Best Practices for Admins and Developers

● Test dark mode in sandbox orgs
● Review custom LWCs for contrast and accessibility
● Avoid hard-coded colors in components
● Use SLDS token-based styling
● Collect user feedback before enabling in production

Feedback and Community

Salesforce encourages feedback during the preview period. Admins and developers can share experiences and suggestions through the Trailblazer Community design-focused groups.

Conclusion

The expansion of dark mode to more Salesforce editions in Spring ’26 is a meaningful step toward a more modern, accessible, and customizable Lightning Experience. Built on SLDS 2, this beta feature allows admins to offer users greater visual comfort without sacrificing consistency or performance.

For orgs adopting modern UI standards, dark mode is a high-impact, low-effort enhancement worth exploring in preview environments.

Blogs

Use Dark Mode in More Editions (Beta)