Theming in Confluence

[Manuvimal Mohan]

I came across a page stating that to create a custom theme in Confluence, I need to build a Connect app. Overview of capabilities

However, I also read that Atlassian will stop supporting Connect, and from September 17, 2025, only Forge apps can be submitted to the Marketplace.

Since Forge doesn’t currently support themes, how would I go about creating new themes for my spaces?

Am I understanding this correctly? I searched the community but couldn’t find any recent updates. If I’m missing something, please point me in the right direction. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[Aron Gombas _Midori_ · Accepted solution]

@Manuvimal Mohan Your understanding is correct.

Nevertheless, even if Connect will be available for internal apps "temporarily", I would not expect Atlassian to keep this live forever. IMO it is just a matter of time (a few years max) when they announce the sunset for all Connect apps...

But, if you need a solution for the next 2-3 years, then Connect is the only viable option. By that time, Forge may be capable to implement themes, so there is a migration path.

[Manuvimal Mohan]

Further reading has got me to this

From what I understand, it is possible to use a Confluence Connect app privately without listing it on the Atlassian Marketplace. There are two main options:

1. Manual installation – You can host the app descriptor on a secure HTTPS endpoint and install it directly in your Confluence Cloud instance via Manage Apps → Upload app.
2. Private Marketplace listing – Alternatively, you can create a private listing so the app is only visible to your organization.

Atlassian will stop accepting new Connect apps for public Marketplace listing after Sept 17, 2025, but internal/private usage should still work.

Can anyone confirm if this understanding is correct, and whether there are any limitations or best practices I should be aware of?