The Zoho Creator platform is a low-code development tool that allows users to create enterprise-grade applications without extensive programming knowledge. In 2023, the company plans to release updates that focus on simplifying application development, improving productivity, incorporating AI technology, and enhancing the user experience. These updates will also help organizations improve their efficiency and scalability, and allow them to quickly develop apps to meet business needs. The key features of the 2023 release projection include updates to portals, which will expand their scope and reach, and other improvements to help organizations achieve these goals.
OpenAPI Specification for Creator V2 API
OpenAPI Specification for Creator V2 API
The Zoho Creator v2 API will be described using the OpenAPI Specification (OAS) v3.0, which is a standard interface for describing REST APIs. The OAS files, which are written in JSON format and can be used in the Swagger tool, provide information about the APIs such as the HTTP verbs to use, endpoints, allowable parameters and types, authentication mechanisms, and error codes. This update will make it easier for developers to learn and use the Creator APIs, which should result in reduced development costs and time. The feature is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2023.
Global variables in Deluge
Global variables in Deluge
Zoho Creator is introducing global variables, which can be used throughout the platform. Global variables allow you to store data in one place and reuse it across multiple forms or applications, similar to how you use functions. This feature will make it more efficient to centralize the definition of variables and access them in multiple locations, as only a single declaration is needed. The release of this feature is projected for the first quarter of 2023.
Activity-based user filter
Activity-based user filter
Administrators in Zoho Creator will soon have the ability to filter users based on their last activity in the workspace. This will allow administrators to identify inactive users and take bulk actions to improve user management. This feature will provide administrators with useful information about user activity in the workspace and allow them to take remedial measures as needed. The release of this feature is projected for the first quarter of 2023.
AI model assistant to create apps from files
AI model assistant to create apps from files
Zoho Creator is introducing a new AI-powered feature called "smart import" that will allow users to turn raw, unstructured data into a structured business application. The feature will use AI to analyze the data and suggest ways to split it into smaller tables and establish relationships using reference forms and lookup fields. This will help users organize their data and make it more useful. The release of this feature is projected for the first quarter of 2023.
Dynamically embed components in Page
Dynamically embed components in Page
In the first quarter of 2023, Zoho Creator will release a feature that allows users to create content-rich pages by dynamically embedding any Creator component, such as forms or reports, using HTML snippets. This will provide users with the flexibility to customize their pages by integrating different components and displaying the information that their users want to see. This feature will help users modernize their pages and provide a better user experience.
Import data to reports via permalink
Import data to reports via permalink
In Q1 2023, Zoho Creator will release the "import permalink" feature, which allows users to import data into reports more easily. Instead of having to navigate to each report individually, users can use the import permalink to import data from any location, such as forms or pages. This feature will provide users with greater flexibility and make it easier to import data into reports. For example, users can configure a button at the top of a page that is dedicated to importing weekly invoices.
Canvas builder
Canvas builder
Zoho Creator is adding a new Canvas builder tool that will allow users to create visually appealing detail views of reports using a feature-rich, easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface. The Canvas builder will enable users to create personalized views of reports and pay attention to small details, helping to provide a transformed experience for stakeholders such as employees and customers. The release of this feature is projected for Q2 2023.
Advanced email analytics
Advanced email analytics
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release advanced email analytics that will allow users to track responses to emails triggered from their Creator applications and gather insights to make informed decisions about customizations to improve engagement and drive better results for their business. The feature will be available in conjunction with ZeptoMail and will provide detailed email logs, recipient activity tracking, and real-time notifications to help users improve their email performance. This feature will provide valuable email metrics for businesses.
User engagement dashboard
User engagement dashboard
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release a feature that provides a comprehensive view of user activity in the platform and allows administrators to gather insights, identify trends, and discover anomalies using a set of key performance indicators (KPIs), metrics, and other data points. The feature will include data visualizations to simplify complex data sets on user usage statistics and create an engagement dashboard that serves as a one-stop destination for administrators to track user activity. This feature will provide unparalleled access to in-depth insights on user engagement in the Creator account.
Application engagement dashboard
Application engagement dashboard
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release a dashboard that allows users to track activity and analyze the usage of their applications. The dashboard will provide statistics on how the apps are performing over different time periods, which can be used to optimize the apps and improve productivity. This feature will allow users to measure application performance using various metrics and identify trends to ensure efficient app usage.
Import huge CSV files
Import huge CSV files
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release a feature that allows users to import large CSV files (up to 2GB) when creating an application, form, or report. This will enable users to easily migrate data sets from their local database or other services into Creator using the popular file format for data storage in business operations. The feature will allow users to process large and complex databases to extract relevant and valuable information for their business.
Portal session timeout
Portal session timeout
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release a feature that allows administrators to protect portal users from potential misuse and security threats by ending sessions after detecting user inactivity. The "idle session timeout" feature will allow administrators to specify the amount of time that a portal user can remain idle before the session is terminated. This will help to prevent unauthorized access and reduce exposure to data breaches, enhancing the security of both portal users and the organization.
Phone number login for Portal
Phone number login for Portal
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release a feature that allows portal users to sign up using their mobile numbers, improving the accessibility and reach of portals. This is especially useful in countries where mobile phones are prevalent, as it will democratize access and allow more users to take advantage of the portal. This feature will be available only to users on the US and IN data centers. By enabling sign-up via mobile number, the feature will help to ensure the equitability of the portal and make it more accessible to users, regardless of their background or location.
Portal page customization
Portal page customization
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release a feature that allows users to customize their sign-up, login, and reset password pages to make them more engaging and appealing to portal users. The customization options will allow users to level up their Portal pages and make them more visually appealing and in line with their branding. This feature will provide users with the ability to ensure that their Portal pages align with the look and feel of their organization.
Application menu
Application menu
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release a new builder that allows users to design the menu structure of their applications in a more intuitive way. The builder will provide users with the ability to create a hierarchy of menus, making it easier to navigate the various components of their app. This feature will allow users to create versatile and personalized menus with compartmentalized information for their users.
Revamped Deluge editor
Revamped Deluge editor
In Q2 2023, Zoho Creator will release an updated Deluge editor that will make it easier for users to build and debug scripts using their preferred programming language. The editor will be smart enough to detect coding errors in real-time and display intuitive error messages to help users understand what went wrong. It will also allow users to set up custom shortcuts and will feature a full-screen mode to eliminate distractions and improve scrolling fluidity. The release of this feature will provide users with a more efficient and streamlined experience when scripting.