What do you get from upgrading to Claris FileMaker 2024?
Ben Fletcher • 30 May 2025
What are the key features of recent FileMaker releases?
Claris has added dozens of new features with each release of FileMaker - so many that it is hard to quickly see exactly how you might quickly benefit from updating. Here we summarise some of our favourite features we like to highlight to customers looking to upgrade:
| Key Features/Version | FileMaker 2024 | FileMaker 2023 | FileMaker 19 | FileMaker 18 | FileMaker 17 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supported until / EOL dates | June 2026 | TBC 2025 | Dec 2024 | June 2021 | Sept 2020 |
| Artificial intelligence script steps and functions | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| REST Data API Usage | Unlimited | Limited | Limited | Beta/Expired | N/A |
| Trigger Claris Connect Flows | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| JavaScript support in web viewers | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Execute Data API script step | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| List-detail layouts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
What are the risks of not upgrading?
Claris recently hosted Community live event covering the dangers of running outdated versions of Claris FileMaker. Key take aways include:
- Running outdated Claris software on a public cloud is a significant security risk - there are known vulnerabilities and exploits in older versions of FileMaker which have been fixed in the current version. Your data is at risk of exposure if you don't keep up to date.
- Both Apple and Microsoft actively update their operating systems on an annual basis and release security updates more frequently. This can impact on integrations with native app integration with FileMaker. Email application integration compatibility is the most obvious example - Outlook and FileMaker need to be updated in lock step to ensure compatibility. Issues arise when you make use of deprecated security features like SMTP and mix 32-bit and 64-bit versions of applications which are not compatible.
- Claris works hard to ensure backward compatibility between releases and they are still making use of the same core file format introduced back in FileMaker 12 (.fmp12), but the longer you leave it between updates then the more things are likely to break and the more work is required to plan, test and address upgrade issues. Generally, Claris maintains a window of compatibility between the current release and previous releases, but if you leave it too long then you need to time both the Server and client machines to be upgraded at exactly the same time so that your end user's don't loose access to their Apps.
Need help to upgrade your FileMaker?
No matter your current version, our consulting team can assist you through the upgrade process, even if your app involves complex dependencies, such as integrations with legacy software or plugins. Most plugins will require updates (sometimes paid) to ensure compatibility with the latest version.
We encourage you to consider the future-proofing benefits of a 'cloud-first' mindset. Older systems may not have been built with this in mind, but the modern FileMaker platform has been designed to seamlessly integrate with other cloud solutions. Likewise, modern Claris FileMaker now leans heavily on being able to more easily integrate directly with other web services such as LLM (Large Language Model) based Artificial Intelligence like OpenAI's ChatGPT service and can be quickly extended to integrate with 3rd party web services using Claris Connect as well as offering custom public facing web forms with Claris Studio.
Ultimately, we believe that your software should work for you, not the other way around. That's why we're committed to ensuring your upgrade is more than a simple technical exercise—it's a strategic move that aligns with your business' evolution. If you're ready to harness the power of the modern, interconnected, and dynamic Claris FileMaker 2024, get in touch with us today. We're here to help you achieve your business goals and offer a free initial consultation for all new prospective customers.
While the new AI features of Claris FileMaker 2025 will undoubtedly generate the most headline interest, there are a number of other new under the hood features which are no less important to professional FileMaker developers. Here is a quick overview of some of the new features we will be using immediately to speed and ease our development, as well as improving the real world performance of apps: 1) GetFieldsOnLayout function Returns a list of the fields on a layout as JSON data. Includes only the fields that are accessible to a find.
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Claris FileMaker 2025 has launched with a range of new features that will undoubtedly make developing new custom apps both quicker and more powerful, but what are the benefits of upgrading if you are currently using an older version of the FileMaker platform? Using a version older than of FileMaker 19? In that case there are even more good reasons to upgrade - contact our team to find out more about the benefits from upgrading that you have been missing out on! Highlighted below are some of the key differences in features were introduced between FileMaker v19, 2023 (v20), 2024 (v21) and now 2025 (v22) releases:
Claris FileMaker 2025 is the ultimate platform for custom app creation, now with powerful new native features for leveraging Artificial Intelligence by integrating Large Language Models (LLMs) and integrating with Claris Connect and Claris Studio . Given its advanced features and capabilities, it's the platform of choice for SMEs seeking to start fresh building a new custom business app. However, if you're thinking about upgrading from an older Claris FileMaker version, preparation is key, and that's where we come in. This brief guide outlines the major points of consideration when upgrading. However, don't worry if these technicalities overwhelm you - our expert consulting team is just a click away, ready to guide you through any concerns. The Upgrade Process: Claris FileMaker v12-v2024 (.fmp12 format) The good news: versions 12-2024 share the same file format as the 2025 version, making upgrades a breeze. However, certain interface changes might require user adaptation if your app was built prior to FileMaker 16. For example, if your users utilize the footer bar for zoom control, view mode changes, or status bar display, they'll have to adjust to using the upper status bar and application menus. If that's a challenge, our consultants can assist with incorporating zoom control into your interface layouts. One caveat is that while it's possible to use legacy versions of Claris FileMaker Pro to connect to Claris FileMaker Server 2025, we advise against it. Mixing client versions can prevent you from leveraging the full benefits of the Claris FileMaker 2025 feature set. For maximum security and optimal performance, make sure both the server and all users are on the latest software version and patch. Claris have compiled a handy checklist of deprecated features in Claris FileMaker 2025, so make sure to verify if these impact your usage: https://support.claris.com/s/answerview?anum=000048380&language=en_US Revamping Your Legacy Systems: Claris FileMaker v11-6 (.fp7 & .fp5 format) or earlier Older versions of FileMaker are a testament to the platform's longevity. However, they do come with unique challenges, including the impossibility of direct conversion using Claris FileMaker 2024. Don't worry, we're equipped to handle these issues and are ready to bring your vintage database files into the present. We also recommend considering a fresh start. The latest Claris FileMaker boasts myriad features that can significantly boost your business operations. Remember: upgrading isn't merely about maintaining the status quo—it's about embracing innovation and driving your business forward. If you want to do the minimum possible work to convert your files into the v2025 format then look at our previous guide for FileMaker Pro 19: https://www.datatherapy.com/news/2020/6/5/planning-your-upgrade-to-claris-filemaker-19-platform General Upgrade Considerations: Let's Get Practical No matter your current version, our team can assist you through the upgrade process, even if your app involves complex dependencies, such as integrations with legacy software or plugins. Note that most plugins will require updates (sometimes paid) to ensure compatibility with Claris FileMaker 2025. We encourage you to consider the future-proofing benefits of a 'cloud-first' and 'AI-first' mindset. Older systems may not have been built with this in mind, but the modern FileMaker platform has been designed to seamlessly integrate with other cloud solutions and now leading public and private LLMs. Ultimately, we believe that your software should work for you, not the other way around. That's why we're committed to ensuring your upgrade is more than a simple technical exercise—it's a strategic move that aligns with your business' evolution. If you're ready to harness the power of the modern, interconnected, and dynamic Claris FileMaker 2025, get in touch with us today . We're here to help you achieve your business goals.
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