Any online store must keep up with the latest trends in the e-commerce world, as it is in constant evolution. At the Shopify Unite 2021 conference, one of the most important updates of Shopify to date was announced: Shopify Online Store 2.0, also known as Shopify 2.0. This update has had a great impact on how online stores are created and managed. In this post, we will talk about how these updates can benefit your business:
What is Shopify Online Store 2.0?
Shopify Online Store 2.0 is a Shopify update that, since 2021, has changed the Shopify user experience by adding a new Theme architecture and advanced customization options. It now offers greater flexibility and control to customize your online stores.
You might like: Why is It Important to Optimize Your Online Store?
How to Know Which Version You’re Using
If you're unsure about which version of Shopify you're using, there are several ways to find out. The most reliable method is to check your store's code.
Follow these steps:
- Log in to your Shopify account.
- Click on "Online Store" and then "Themes."
- Select "Actions" and then "Edit code."
- Open the "Config" folder and click on "settings_schema.json." This file contains information about the theme version.
There are other ways to check your version, such as:
- If your theme was created before June 2021 and hasn't been updated, you're probably using Shopify Vintage.
- Inside the Theme Editor, check if you can add application sections. If possible, you are using Shopify 2.0.
Key Features of Shopify Online Store 2.0
Sections Everywhere
The ability to change, add, or remove sections anywhere on your website, whether on product pages, collections, custom pages, or blog entries, is one of the finest features of Shopify 2.0. This allows you to change the appearance of your online store without needing any technical knowledge!
Enhanced App Integration
Shopify 2.0 users can easily integrate apps, extensions, and widgets into their applications. Most of these app integrations are managed through the Theme Editor, giving you 100% control over where these apps appear on the page.
Improved Theme Editor Interface
Shopify 2.0 improved the user interface for easier navigation, and making changes or edits to your website.
Custom Configuration with Liquid
This functionality allows you to make specific customizations to your online store using the Liquid programming language. This means that if you use Shopify 2.0, you have the ability to access and change specific elements on your online store and pages directly from the Theme Editor.
Native Metafields
If you're on Shopify 2.0, you can now incorporate additional data fields directly through the Theme Editor, making the process easier and improving performance. Additionally, metafields now support a variety of file types, including PDFs, images, video links, and product lists.
Dynamic Content
Shopify 2.0 users can connect dynamic data sources to their theme sections, allowing dynamic content experiences tailored to products, collections, blog articles, and more.
You might like: 7 Key Elements Your E-commerce Should Have
Benefits of Shopify Online Store 2.0
The features of Shopify Online Store 2.0 come together to offer several advantages for business owners, agencies, and users:
Improved Speed and Performance
Shopify 2.0 websites load over 35% faster compared to "Vintage" Shopify stores. This performance improvement not only enhances SEO ranking and search engines but also provides users with a more satisfying experience when browsing the online store.
Increased Efficiency for Online Store Owners
The management and development of your online store are significantly streamlined with the introduction of the new theme architecture in Shopify Online Store 2.0. Creation and optimization become more agile and efficient, reducing the need for coding skills.
Faster Implementation of Changes
The flexibility to make changes without requiring technical knowledge represents significant time-saving. Partly due to the flexibility of metafields and the ability to add sections to any page, this feature allows for the quick incorporation of new ideas and improvements.
Creation of Unique Online Stores
Improvements in the Theme Editor and Liquid customization capability allows you to create a unique and different experience that highlights the essence of your brand and connects more effectively with your target audience.
Enhanced User Experience
Stores created in Shopify 2.0 typically offer superior performance thanks to their optimized design. This translates to more satisfied customers, a decrease in bounce rate, and an increase in conversion rate.
Should You Upgrade Your Theme to Shopify Online Store 2.0?
To fully take advantage of the benefits of Shopify Online Store 2.0, the theme you are currently using must be compatible with this new version. You can decide to upgrade your current theme to version 2.0, but in some cases, it may be more convenient to undergo a complete redesign with a theme compatible with 2.0.
It's important to clarify that you are not forced to upgrade to Shopify Online Store 2.0. If you choose not to, you will continue to receive support from Shopify for any issues you may present.
However, the benefits of Shopify Online Store 2.0 are very convincing, and updating your theme could open up great opportunities for your brand. If you feel limited by the content management capabilities of your current theme, seek greater flexibility, or simply want more control over your online store, consider migrating or redesigning to 2.0.
You might like: How to Install Google Tag Manager on Your Shopify Store Theme Files: a Step-by-Step Guide
What You Should Know Before Upgrading to Shopify 2.0
If you're considering upgrading your Shopify 1.0 or "Vintage" store to Shopify 2.0, here are some steps we recommend:
Essential: Create a backup of your store in case of issues during the transition.
You can upgrade to Shopify 2.0 in several ways, depending on your needs and current situation:
- Download a Theme Online Store 2.0 from the Shopify Theme Store.
- If available, download a new version of your current theme.
- If you have a custom theme, manually switch the current theme.
It's important to note that you may need the help of a developer to perform the upgrade if you have a custom theme. This may require more time and resources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shopify Online Store 2.0 offers a variety of features and advantages that can significantly improve your experience and of your users on your online store. From greater flexibility in customization to faster implementation of changes, this update has changed the way online stores are built and managed.
If you are interested on further optimizing your online store, we would be happy talk about it through our free consultation!