Apple's FileMaker subsidiary today announced the launch of FileMaker 15, the latest version of the company's database platform for easily building customized apps. FileMaker's emphasis is on bridging the gap between generic apps and custom coding to allow teams with limited IT resources to efficiently build custom apps for a variety of platforms.
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Mobility is a key focus of FileMaker 15, with the FileMaker Go iOS app gaining support for Touch ID and 3D Touch Quick Actions, improving security and ease of access for custom apps within FileMaker Go. New support for app extensions in FileMaker Go also makes it easy to move files within projects to other apps for editing.
Support for iBeacons also allows proximity-based data to be collected and displayed within apps built using FileMaker. And finally, FileMaker's WebDirect technology with new support for mobile phone browsers makes it easy to access web-based apps automatically optimized for a variety of screen resolutions and sizes.
FileMaker has also focused on automation and integration in FileMaker 15, with new highlighting of script errors and undo scripting functionality, as well as a new ESS Adapter feature to allow external SQL sources to be embedded like native databases.
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Ease of use is another focus area, with a refreshed user interface offering a more modern look for toolbars, and new starter solutions offering more relevant examples such as contacts management and asset/inventory management that can be easily tailored for a specific project.
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Finally, security and performance are also addressed in FileMaker 15, with new concealed edit boxes to hide sensitive information, and a number of security upgrades including proactive security warnings and support for new SSL certificate types. On the performance side, new stats logging and an in-line progress bar make it easier to diagnose and address slowdowns.
With the debut of FileMaker 15, there is a new subscription licensing structure for teams, which includes FileMaker Server and the ability for teams of five or more users to access systems via desktop, mobile, or web. Annual subscription pricing comes in at $108 per user for FileMaker Pro, $180 per user for FileMaker Pro Advanced, and $348 for FileMaker Server. For those who prefer perpetual licenses, one-time pricing comes in at $329, $549, and $1044 for the respective versions. FileMaker Go 15 is a free download from the App Store that allows users to remotely access solutions created using FileMaker Pro. [Direct Link]
Top Rated Comments
Can't see a future for desktop clients like this. Everything is moving to the cloud.
They're not mutually exclusive, desktop apps can access your cloud data. You'd want the desktop clients for local quick cache anyway. Web browsers are not there yet where it can replace these desktop apps and properly handle offline mode.Many of these web apps are unfortunately just not usable on mobile devices, the native apps will provide better experience with better integration with the hardware.
In addition, FileMaker has support for WebDirect, to enable web apps that can be access with any web browsers.
I miss Bento. Too bad they discontinued it. ... FileMaker is overkill for my private needs.
It's not just overkill. It's clunky and ugly, particularly on mobile.'After May 9, 2018, the price for concurrent connections will be 3 times the price...'
So for many it will be much more expensive and the upgrade which brings very little will be impossible to justify.