FileMaker Pro 15
The veteran database software keeps up to date
$329 ($197 upgrade) Developer FileMaker, filemaker.com
Requirements OS X 10.10 or later
Although old-timers consider FileMaker to be the granddaddy of Mac database applications, over the years the Apple subsidiary’s flagship software has spread its wings and become something far more expansive. In particular, the Go mobile apps introduced in 2010 have helped turn FileMaker into a more impressive and complete platform.
If that wasn’t abundantly clear before, FileMaker Pro 15 certainly gets the message across. Thanks to Touch ID, 3D Touch, iOS file sharing, and iBeacon support, databases run on the companion FileMaker Go apps now feel more like native iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch software. Plus, for the first time, WebDirect delivers hosted databases to the Chrome browser on supported Android smartphones as well as desktop computers and tablets.
With the focus on mobile, there’s not a whole lot of spotlight left for the traditional Mac (and Windows) applications to shine. Indeed, most of the FileMaker 15 buzz is focused on performance, saving time, and small tweaks to streamline the software for new and veteran users alike. For example, errors are now highlighted in red from the Script Workspace, making it easier to spot problems after importing existing scripts.
FileMaker Pro’s user interface has also received a few meaningful improvements, with redesigned status toolbar icons, a refreshed layout inspector, and new Getting Started window. You can also – finally! – use the Undo command from the script editor. Last but not least, Help is now web-based, but can optionally be downloaded for offline access.
Version 15 also doesn’t take the security of your data for granted, with the option to conceal edit boxes. Developers creating custom apps used to capture sensitive data such as passwords, PIN codes, or credit card numbers can now obscure characters from view as they’re being entered.
Coming so closely on the heels of last year’s more feature-packed release, many users will opt to dodge the $197 upgrade by just skipping ahead to the next version – especially when there’s still no way to sync database files between desktop and mobile using iCloud or another cloud service.
the bottom line. FileMaker Pro 15 takes a backseat this year, allowing mobile and server enhancements to shine.