Summary / TL:DR: Worried that you might be sending less-than-perfect-looking emails because your recipients have Dark Mode activated on their phone? Use these design tips and references to make your templates Dark Mode-proof.
What is Dark Mode?
“Dark Mode” is a vague term meaning any color theme or color setting in an app or operating system that uses a dark background and light text, rather than dark text on a white background. Its benefits are said to include reduced eye strain/fatigue, reduced energy use, and reduced light pollution. Some settings are changed within a given app; others are chosen in the device settings.
As more and more email clients, browsers, and devices offer Dark Mode and similar features, it’s more and more likely that at least some of your users are using that feature. If your templates aren’t designed to be “mode-agnostic” – that is, fully functional in either dark or light mode – you could be providing a less-than-optimal email experience for your customer.
Can Dark Mode cause Deliverability Issues?
TL;DR - No!
Dark Mode on its own will have no bearing on email deliverability. We have not seen any evidence of any correlation between Dark/Light mode settings and spam folder issues.
However, designing a less-than-optimal email experience for your customers can lead to spam complaints, which will cause deliverability issues.
How do I design for Dark Mode?
Making your templates mode-agnostic doesn’t require re-inventing the wheel. It may require a new set of logos and other graphics, but a full redesign/rebuild isn’t necessary.
For example: using PNGs with transparent backgrounds rather than white backgrounds ensures your images render correctly no matter the background. A ~1px white/light stroke around any black/dark text will make sure its visible on light and dark backgrounds. Campaign Monitor’s “The Developer’s Guide to Dark Mode in Email” includes all sorts of tips and tricks for designing around Dark Mode.
You can use Everest’s template testing tool to see how your templates work in Dark Mode across platforms/devices/email clients, and adjust accordingly.
Supporting Documentation:
Overview: https://www.litmus.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-dark-mode-for-email-marketers/
https://www.validity.com/blog/the-not-so-dark-side-of-dark-mode/
Notes and ideas specific to template development:
Dark Mode presents a new challenge for designers and developers, but a few small changes can Dark-Mode-proof your email. And don’t worry – Dark Mode won’t directly affect your deliverability!
Still need help?
We know this can be frustrating. To get further help please open a Support ticket.
Related FAQS
Related Content
Level up with a Masterclass
Cannot find the article you’re looking for?
Suggest a new article here!