Umami Regression: Fix URL Theme/Lang Parameters On Share Links

Is your Umami dashboard not displaying correctly when shared publicly? It seems a recent update to Umami software, specifically version 3.0.1, has introduced a regression that affects the functionality of URL parameters for theme and language settings on public share links. Let's dive into the details of this bug and why it's causing headaches for users who rely on consistent dashboard appearances.

The Bug: Theme and Language Parameters Ignored

The core issue is that URL parameters like ?theme=light and ?lang=es, which previously allowed you to force a specific theme (e.g., light mode) and language (e.g., Spanish) on a public share link, are now being ignored. Instead, the share page now defaults to the visitor's system or browser preferences, as determined by the prefers-color-scheme setting and their language settings. This change disrupts the intended presentation of dashboards, especially when embedding them into other applications or sharing them with clients who may have different default settings.

Why This Matters

For many Umami users, the ability to control the theme and language of shared dashboards is critical. Here's why:

• Embedding Dashboards: When embedding Umami dashboards into other applications, such as wikis or client portals, you need to ensure a consistent look and feel. Relying on the visitor's system preferences can lead to a jarring experience if the dashboard's theme doesn't match the surrounding application.
• Client Communication: When sharing dashboards with clients, it's essential to present the data in a clear and understandable manner. Forcing a specific language ensures that all clients, regardless of their personal language settings, can easily interpret the information.
• Brand Consistency: Maintaining a consistent brand image is crucial for any organization. By controlling the theme of shared dashboards, you can ensure that they align with your brand's visual identity.

The Impact

The regression in Umami 3.0.1 has a significant impact on users who depend on consistent dashboard appearances. It disrupts workflows, compromises brand consistency, and can lead to confusion among clients and stakeholders. This bug essentially removes a valuable feature that provided greater control over the user experience.

Technical Details: Umami Version and Deployment

The reported issue is specific to Umami version 3.0.1, and the user is utilizing Umami Cloud for database management. While the bug report doesn't specify the browser used, the issue is likely browser-agnostic, as it stems from the server-side handling of URL parameters.

Related Issue

This issue is related to a previous suggestion in closed issue #1349, indicating that the need for this functionality has been recognized before. Re-introducing the ability to set theme and language via URL parameters would address a long-standing user requirement.

How to Re-Add the Functionality: A Call to Action

The primary request is for the Umami team to re-implement the ability to set theme and language via URL parameters. This would restore the previous functionality and address the concerns of users who rely on consistent dashboard appearances. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved in re-adding this feature:

• Analyze the Code: The Umami team needs to analyze the codebase to identify the cause of the regression. This involves tracing the handling of URL parameters and determining why they are no longer being applied to the share page.
• Implement the Fix: Once the cause is identified, the team needs to implement a fix that re-enables the functionality of the theme and lang parameters. This may involve modifying the server-side code to correctly parse and apply these parameters.
• Test Thoroughly: After implementing the fix, it's crucial to test it thoroughly to ensure that it works as expected and doesn't introduce any new issues. This should include testing with different browsers, languages, and themes.
• Release the Update: Once the fix has been thoroughly tested, the Umami team can release an update that includes the fix. This will restore the functionality for all users who have been affected by the regression.

Potential Workarounds

While waiting for an official fix, there may be some potential workarounds that users can employ. However, these workarounds may not be ideal and may require technical expertise:

• Custom CSS: Users could potentially use custom CSS to override the default theme settings. However, this would require knowledge of CSS and may not be a sustainable solution in the long run.
• Browser Extensions: Users could potentially use browser extensions to force a specific theme or language. However, this would require users to install and configure the extensions, which may not be feasible for all users.

Conclusion: Restoring Essential Functionality

The regression in Umami 3.0.1 has disrupted a critical feature for users who rely on consistent dashboard appearances. Re-introducing the ability to set theme and language via URL parameters is essential to restore the previous functionality and address the concerns of affected users. By addressing this issue, the Umami team can ensure that users can continue to create and share dashboards that are visually appealing and easily understandable.

The ability to control the presentation of shared dashboards is not just a cosmetic preference; it's a fundamental requirement for many users who rely on Umami for data visualization and communication. The sooner this regression is addressed, the better it will be for the Umami community.

Learn more about Umami and its features on the official website.