Is your Shopify store outdated? This guide will walk you through the process of updating your Shopify theme to the latest version, ensuring a seamless transition and a fresh new look for your online store.  

Ready to give your store a boost? Let’s dive in!

How to Update Shopify Theme to the newest version

Step 1: Check for Updates

• Log into your Shopify admin.
• Go to Online Store > Themes.
• Look for a notification banner or message indicating an available theme update.

Step 2: Add the Updated Theme to Your Library (Manual Update)

• Click the notification to open the update details.
• Click Add to theme library.
• The new version will appear in your theme library with the prefix “Updated copy of…”.

Step 3: Preview and Publish (Manual Update)

• Click Actions next to the updated theme copy, then select Preview to test the changes.

• If everything looks good, click Publish to make the updated theme live on your store.

Notes:

• Automatic Updates: If your theme hasn’t been customized with code edits, Shopify might automatically update it in the background. You’ll still see a notification, but the update process is seamless.
• Customizations: If you’ve made code changes to your theme, manual updates are recommended to avoid losing customizations. Consider working with a developer or using Shopify’s version control features for safer updates.
• Backup: Always back up your theme before updating, just in case!

Common issues and how to solve them

While updating your Shopify theme to the latest version, you may encounter several bugs, glitches, etc., that can postpone or delay progress. If you happen to face one of those issues, we are willing to provide several solutions below:

Issue: No update available for my theme

• Check theme source: If your theme is from the Shopify Theme Store, it’s usually updated automatically. If it’s a third-party theme, check the developer’s website for updates.
• Theme compatibility: Ensure your theme is compatible with the latest Shopify version. Older themes may not receive updates.

Issue: Theme update fails

• Code conflicts: If you’ve customized your theme code, the update might conflict with your changes. Try reverting to the original theme code or contact the theme developer or a Shopify expert for help.
• App conflicts: Some third-party apps can interfere with theme updates. Try disabling apps temporarily to see if the update works.
• Browser issues: Clear your browser’s cache and data, or try a different browser.
• Network issues: Check your internet connection and try again later.

Issue: Customizations are lost after updating

• Back up your theme: Always make a backup before updating so you can revert if needed.
• Use Shopify’s version control: If you’re comfortable with code, use Shopify’s version control features to track and manage changes.
• Contact theme developer: If the update caused significant issues, contact the theme developer for support.

Issue: Theme looks or functions differently after updating

• Check theme settings: Review your theme settings, as some might have been reset or changed in the update.
• Read the changelog: The theme developer usually provides a changelog with updates detailing any changes that might affect your store.
• Clear browser cache: If you’re seeing old styling or elements, clear your browser cache and refresh the page.

FAQs

What happens to my existing theme customizations if I update to a new version?

Shopify attempts to automatically preserve most customizations during updates. However, major theme structure changes might require manual adjustments. Always backup your theme before updating!

I see an “Update” button, but it’s grayed out, why can’t I click it?

This usually means you’ve made direct code edits to the theme. You’ll need to update manually or revert those changes to use the automatic update.

My theme update failed, what now?

Check the error message for specifics. Common causes include conflicts with app code or custom changes. You might need to contact your theme developer or Shopify support.

Can I test the new theme version before publishing it to my live store?

Absolutely! Shopify allows you to preview the updated theme in a separate environment, ensuring everything looks and works as expected before making it live.

My theme developer released an update, but I don’t see it in my Shopify admin, why?

Sometimes developers push updates gradually. If you’re eager, reach out to the developer to see if they can manually provide the update file for you to install.

In conclusion

This guide has demonstrated how to effortlessly update your Shopify theme to the latest version, ensuring you benefit from new features, improved performance, and bug fixes. Have you recently updated your Shopify theme? Share your experience and any tips you have for a seamless update process in the comments below!

Related Posts:

• 4 Steps to Upload a Theme File From your Computer on Shopify
• How to Buy a Theme From the Shopify Theme Store