Shopify has unveiled a series of updates and new features in July 2024 designed to enhance both merchant and customer experiences. These changes underscore Shopify’s commitment to providing innovative solutions and improving the overall efficiency of eCommerce operations.
1. Credit Notes and Shopify Account Credits (July 26)
Shopify introduces Credit Notes and a new refunding mechanism via Shopify Account Credits for refunds from partially or totally cancelled invoices.
Why does it matter?
This feature simplifies the refund process, offering a streamlined way to manage and track credits and refunds, thereby improving financial operations and customer satisfaction.
2. Shopify Forms Submissions Stored in Metaobjects (July 25)
Merchants can now view all submissions from Shopify Forms within the admin, making data management more efficient.
Why does it matter?
Centralizing form submissions in metaobjects helps merchants better organize and access customer information, facilitating enhanced marketing strategies and customer service.
3. Automate Your Privacy Settings (July 25)
Automation tools are now available to set up and maintain your privacy policy, cookie banner, and data sales opt-out features in line with Shopify’s latest recommendations.
Why does it matter?
Automating privacy settings ensures compliance with evolving data protection regulations, saving time and reducing the risk of non-compliance.
4. Migration to hCaptcha on Storefronts (July 24)
Shopify is rolling out hCaptcha implementation on storefronts, replacing reCAPTCHA.
Why does it matter?
hCaptcha offers improved security measures and a better user experience by reducing friction for legitimate users while effectively blocking bots.
5. UI Extensions for Plus Merchants on Draft Order Checkouts (July 22)
Plus merchants can now use apps built with compatible UI extensions on draft order checkouts.
Why does it matter?
This update enhances the flexibility and functionality of the checkout process for Plus merchants, enabling more customized and efficient transactions.
6. Flow: Investigate Workflow Runs from Admin (July 19)
Merchants can now investigate Flow automations by searching workflow runs from the Admin “More actions” menu across various entities.
Why does it matter?
This feature enhances the ability to troubleshoot and optimize automated workflows, ensuring smoother operations and better resource management.
7. Cash Tracking Across Locations in POS (July 16)
Cash tracking information is now viewable across all retail locations, with detailed information accessible per location.
Why does it matter?
Improved cash tracking enhances financial oversight and operational efficiency, especially for businesses with multiple retail locations.
8. Hosting 3D Models and Videos Behind Store URLs (July 12)
Shopify store assets, including 3D models and videos, are now hosted behind a store’s custom URL instead of cdn.shopify.com.
Why does it matter?
This change enhances brand recognition and provides a more cohesive and branded customer experience.
9. Faster Filtering for B2B Customer Data (July 9)
Merchants can now filter company and company location indexes using metafields, speeding up data management.
Why does it matter?
Faster and more efficient data filtering helps B2B merchants manage customer information and tailor their sales strategies more effectively.
10. Updated Draft Orders in the Shopify App (July 8)
The Draft Orders feature in the Shopify App has been updated to align closely with web capabilities, including discount codes, inventory reservation, bundles, and local shipping options.
Why does it matter?
These enhancements provide greater flexibility and functionality for merchants, streamlining order management and improving the overall customer experience.
11. Collective Retailers Connect Suppliers at Scale (July 8)
Retailers can now invite suppliers through a custom signup link, simplifying the onboarding process.
Why does it matter?
This feature accelerates supplier integration, enabling retailers to expand their product offerings quickly and efficiently.
12. Send Draft Order Invoices with Payment Terms (July 8)
Merchants can now send invoices for draft orders with payment terms, allowing B2B customers to review and pay based on negotiated terms.
Why does it matter?
This update provides greater flexibility for B2B transactions, accommodating the unique needs of business clients and improving cash flow management.
13. Markets Pro is Now Managed Markets (July 2)
Shopify has rebranded Markets Pro to Managed Markets to better reflect its comprehensive cross-border solutions.
Why does it matter?
The new name emphasizes Shopify’s focus on providing robust and integrated solutions for global commerce, enhancing clarity and merchant understanding.
14. Shopify POS Split-Screen Home Layout for Tablet (July 2)
The new split-screen home layout for tablets keeps the cart in view, making product and customer searches more efficient during cart building.
Why does it matter?
This improvement enhances the user experience for staff, streamlining the checkout process and improving service speed in retail environments.
Scared to DIY? We’re Here To Help
Shopify's latest updates offer exciting new features and tools to help eCommerce businesses stay competitive and thrive in today's digital landscape. By leveraging these updates, you can improve your inventory management, streamline workflows, create a personalised experience for customers and optimise your marketing strategies for better ROI.
At Vevol Media, we specialise in Shopify development and all things eCommerce, so if you find yourself overwhelmed by implementing these updates yourself, we're here to help you take advantage of these new features. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you take your online business to the next level by creating a seamless and enjoyable online experience for your customers.