Below is a practical version-by-version summary, highlighting the major technical changes and capacity improvements.
| Version | Release Year | Main Features & Enhancements |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | 2016 | – Improved user interface for mobile and desktop. – In-app updates for easier upgrades. – Improved security (SSL certificate verification). – Basic script error logging. – Limited web direct performance. |
| 16 | 2017 | – Major API: REST Data API introduced — opened up easier integration. – JSON functions added — better for web services. – Enhanced layout objects window for better UI control. – Card windows — new UI paradigm. – OAuth 2.0 support for authentication. – PDF support on FileMaker Go. |
| 17 | 2018 | – Starter apps and new UI design tools. – Master-detail layouts. – Redesigned licensing (User Licensing). – Enhanced Data API. – Simplified server admin console. – Snapshot link enhancements. |
| 18 | 2019 | – Script Error Logging and Data File script steps. – Enhanced security and authentication (Open Directory retired). – Improved import dialog. – Redesigned Manage Security dialog. – Append to PDF in scripts. – Enhanced Data API performance. |
| 19 | 2020 | – Add-ons and JavaScript integration in layouts — low-code extensions. – AI/ML via Core ML on Mac/iOS. – WebDirect improvements for mobile browsers. – Siri Shortcuts support. – New deployment options (cloud-first approach). – Marketplace expanded for extensions. |
| 19.1 → 19.6 | 2021–2022 | – Multiple incremental updates. – Customizable Add-ons, smart portals. – More robust API & web service support. – Better Linux server support. – Enhanced server monitoring. |
| 2023 & Claris Pro | 2022–2024 | – Rebranding: FileMaker Pro → Claris Pro. – Integration with Claris Studio — modern cloud-first tools for forms, views, dashboards. – Claris Connect integrated tightly. – Claris ID unified authentication. – Enhanced cloud deployment. – Improved JSON & API capabilities. – WebDirect more performant. – Backend upgrades for scalability. |
Key Evolution Themes:
- From 15 to now: Major push to open APIs, cloud services, JavaScript, add-ons, and integrations.
- Shift toward hybrid low-code with Claris Studio/Connect.
- Continuous improvements in WebDirect and mobile.
- Security and authentication modernized (OAuth, Claris ID).

