How to Update a Shopify Theme.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Theme Updates
3. Checking Your Current Theme Version
4. Manual Update Process
5. Using the Theme Updater App
6. Common Pitfalls and Best Practices
7. Conclusion and FAQs

Updating your Shopify theme is an essential aspect of maintaining a successful online store. With frequent updates, theme developers enhance usability, fix bugs, and introduce new features that can significantly improve your customers' shopping experience. However, the process of updating a Shopify theme can seem daunting, especially if you've made customizations to your existing theme. This guide will walk you through how to update a Shopify theme effectively, ensuring you retain your customizations and improve your store's performance.

Introduction

Imagine launching a new product only to discover that your store's theme isn't optimized for the latest features or isn't compatible with essential plugins. This scenario is not uncommon for Shopify merchants. Many store owners neglect to update their themes regularly, missing out on crucial enhancements and optimizations. In fact, according to recent research, a significant percentage of online stores run on outdated themes, which can lead to slower loading times and a poor user experience.

The importance of keeping your Shopify theme updated cannot be overstated. Not only does it ensure that your store runs smoothly, but it also enhances your website's security and can positively impact your SEO rankings. This blog post aims to provide a detailed overview of how to update a Shopify theme without losing any customizations you may have made. By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the updating process, the tools available to assist you, and best practices to follow.

We will cover the following aspects in detail:

1. Understanding Theme Updates: Why updates are necessary and what they entail.
2. Checking Your Current Theme Version: How to determine if an update is available.
3. Manual Update Process: Step-by-step instructions for updating your theme manually.
4. Using the Theme Updater App: A more automated approach to updating your theme.
5. Common Pitfalls and Best Practices: What to watch out for during the update process.
6. Conclusion and FAQs: A summary of key points and answers to common questions.

Let’s dive into the details of each aspect to help you successfully update your Shopify theme.

Understanding Theme Updates

When you install a theme from the Shopify Theme Store, it's important to understand that developers periodically release updates. These updates can include new features, design enhancements, and essential bug fixes. Staying current with these updates is crucial for several reasons:

• Improved Performance: Updates often optimize the theme's code, which can lead to faster load times and a smoother shopping experience.
• Enhanced Features: New features added in updates can help you improve your store's functionality and user engagement.
• Security Fixes: Updates often address security vulnerabilities, keeping your store and customer data safe.
• Compatibility: As Shopify evolves, updates ensure that your theme remains compatible with the latest Shopify features and third-party apps.

However, it's crucial to note that if you have made custom code changes to your theme, updating it might overwrite those customizations. Therefore, understanding how to manage your customizations during the update process is vital.

Checking Your Current Theme Version

Before you begin the update process, it's essential to check which version of your theme you are currently using. This will help you determine whether an update is available. To check your theme version:

1. Log in to your Shopify admin panel.
2. Click on Online Store and then select Themes.
3. In the Current theme section, click on the version number of your theme.

If an update is available, you will see a notification indicating that a new version of your theme exists.

Manual Update Process

If you prefer to have control over the update process and retain your customizations, you can manually update your Shopify theme. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Backup Your Current Theme

Always create a backup of your current theme before making any updates. This way, if something goes wrong, you can easily revert to your previous version. To backup your theme:

1. Navigate to Online Store > Themes in your Shopify admin.
2. Find the theme you want to back up, click on Actions, and select Duplicate. This will create a backup copy of your theme.

Step 2: Access the Shopify Theme Store

1. Go to the Shopify Theme Store and log in to your account.
2. Search for your current theme by name.
3. Click on the theme in the search results.

Step 3: Add the Latest Theme Version

1. If an updated version is available, you will see an option to Add latest theme version. Click on it.
2. The updated theme will be added to your theme library.

Step 4: Customize Your Updated Theme

The newly added theme will not retain your customizations. To transfer your settings:

1. Go to the Theme settings of your old theme.
2. Navigate to Actions > Edit Code.
3. Locate Config and open the settings_data.json file.
4. Copy the entire code from this file.
5. Go to your updated theme's settings_data.json file and paste the copied code.

Step 5: Test the Updated Theme

Thoroughly test the updated theme to ensure all functionalities work as expected. Check for any design discrepancies or broken links. You can preview the theme by clicking on the Preview button in the theme library.

Step 6: Publish the New Theme

Once you're satisfied with the updated theme's appearance and functionality, you can make it live:

1. Go to Online Store > Themes.
2. Find your updated theme, click on Actions, and select Publish.

Using the Theme Updater App

For those who prefer a more automated approach, the Theme Updater App can facilitate the updating process effectively. Here’s how to use it:

Step 1: Install the Theme Updater App

1. Visit the Shopify App Store and search for the Theme Updater App.
2. Install the app on your Shopify store.

Step 2: Check for Available Updates

1. Open the Theme Updater App dashboard.
2. The app will notify you if updates are available for your theme.

Step 3: Update Your Theme

1. Click on the Update button to initiate the update process. The app will install an unpublished version of your theme automatically.
2. Your existing settings will be duplicated in the new theme version.

Step 4: Preview and Test the New Theme

Before publishing, preview the new theme to ensure everything looks correct and functions as intended. This is a crucial step to catch any potential issues.

Step 5: Publish Your Theme

Once you are confident in the updated theme, go ahead and publish it by navigating to Online Store > Themes, selecting the updated theme, and choosing Publish.

Common Pitfalls and Best Practices

Updating a Shopify theme can be a straightforward process, but there are several common pitfalls to avoid:

• Neglecting Backups: Always back up your theme before updating to safeguard against potential issues.
• Overlooking Customizations: If you’ve made significant code changes, consider documenting those changes before updating.
• Not Testing Thoroughly: Thoroughly test the updated theme before going live to ensure everything functions as expected.
• Updating During Peak Times: Avoid updating your theme during peak business hours or significant sales events, as this can lead to disruptions in service.

Conclusion and FAQs

Updating your Shopify theme is an essential part of maintaining an effective online store. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your updates are smooth and that your customizations are preserved. Remember, whether you choose to update manually or use the Theme Updater App, keeping your theme up to date can lead to a more efficient, user-friendly shopping experience for your customers.

FAQs

Q1: How often should I update my Shopify theme?
It's advisable to check for theme updates every few months or whenever you hear about new features that could benefit your store.

Q2: Will I lose my customizations if I update my theme?
If you have made code changes, those customizations may be overwritten. It’s vital to back up your theme and document any customizations before proceeding with updates.

Q3: What if I purchased a theme from a third-party provider?
Updates for third-party themes are not managed through Shopify. You will need to contact the theme developer for updates.

Q4: Can I revert to my old theme if something goes wrong?
Yes, if you have created a backup of your theme, you can easily revert to the previous version.

Q5: How can Praella assist in updating my Shopify theme?
Praella offers a range of services, including User Experience & Design, Web & App Development, and Strategy, Continuity, and Growth, to help streamline your e-commerce processes and ensure a seamless experience while updating your Shopify theme. You can learn more about our services here.

By keeping your Shopify theme updated, you not only enhance your store’s performance but also provide a better shopping experience for your customers. Happy updating!