Get Ready for the Future of Shopify Development with GraphQL!

As a Shopify store owner, you’re always looking for ways to improve your business and enhance your customer experience. That’s why we’re excited to share some great news: 

Shopify is moving to GraphQL as the main tool for building apps! 

What’s New?

Shopify is making a big change by adopting GraphQL as the main way to build apps. This new approach will replace the older REST Admin API starting on April 1, 2025. Don’t worry; if you have an existing app, you can still use the REST API.

Why is Shopify Making this Change?

Shopify wants to maintain one API and have decided to discontinue the REST Admin API in favor of the GraphQL Admin API. GraphQL addresses several limitations of REST, offering significant benefits such as:

• Efficient Data Retrieval: Fetch precisely the data you need in a single request.
• Reduced Network Load: Minimize data transfer between client and server.
• Enhanced Flexibility: Customize queries to suit your specific needs.

How Does This Affect You?

• Library Tasks Update: All our library tasks will be updated to use GraphQL only. You will get a notification via email and in app if there is an update available for a task you have installed. Tasks that can be auto-updated will be updated for you. These updated tasks will serve as examples to help you migrate your custom tasks.
• Custom Tasks Migration: If you have custom tasks relying on the REST API, they will need to be migrated to use the GraphQL API before the deprecation deadlines. See our guide here.
• Action Required: To ensure uninterrupted service, please begin updating your custom tasks to GraphQL as soon as possible.

Why GraphQL?

GraphQL is a modern tool that helps developers work more efficiently. It allows you to pull just the data you need in one go, which saves time and reduces clutter. With its user-friendly features and clear guidelines, it’s easier to use than ever before.

What’s Included?

Faster Access to Data: You can get exactly what you need without extra requests, which speeds things up.

Strong Safety Features: GraphQL checks your data for accuracy, making it easier for developers to create better apps.

Improved Tools: New tools and documentation are available to help you learn and use GraphQL effectively.

Building with GraphQL

From now on, all new apps on Shopify will need to use GraphQL. It’s packed with useful features, including support for a large number of product variants and special options for managing data.

Next Steps

1. Prepare for Changes: By April 1, 2025, all new public apps must use GraphQL. Existing apps can continue with the REST API for now, but a timeline for transitioning will be shared in 2025.
2. Get Started Early: If you want to learn to migrate Shopify app to GraphQL, there are guides and tutorials available to help you out.

In Conclusion

GraphQL is set to lead Shopify’s development efforts, making it easier and more efficient to build apps. Let’s embrace this change and work together to create a brighter future for online shopping!