FileMaker 15 Debuts With Focus on Mobility, Ease of Use, and Security

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.

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.

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.

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]