# How to update to the 3.x version

Because of significant structural changes in the Shopify core framework, backward compatibility between older and newer theme versions is not supported. The latest release operates as a separate template, as the updated architecture prevents direct migration from the previous system.

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**Theme Version Update — Important Information**

Shopify periodically introduces major platform updates that improve performance, security, and customization capabilities. However, these updates can also introduce **fundamental changes to Shopify’s core system**, such as new architecture for sections, settings, or app integrations.

Because of these significant structural changes, **older theme versions are not directly compatible with newer ones**. The update process cannot simply overwrite or merge the previous theme files — doing so could cause serious functionality conflicts or data loss.

As a result, the **new theme version functions as an entirely new template**, built using the latest Shopify technology and standards. This ensures optimal performance, faster loading times, and full compatibility with the latest Shopify features (for example, updated Online Store 2.0 standards, JSON templates, and improved theme settings schema).

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**What This Means for You**

* The new theme must be **installed as a separate version** rather than replacing your existing one.
* Your **previous theme version and settings** will remain intact, allowing you to review or copy your customizations manually if needed.
* You can **recreate or reimport** your content (sections, presets, and configurations) into the new theme to match your previous layout and design.
* Once you’ve verified that everything is working as expected, you can **publish the new version** to make it live on your storefront.

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**Why Compatibility Isn’t Possible**

Shopify’s theme update system relies on a new file structure and configuration model. These changes affect:

* How sections and blocks are stored and referenced.
* The JSON template structure for pages and collections.
* Integration points for Shopify’s new metafields and dynamic sources.
* Settings schema organization and theme editor functionality.

Because of these differences, **automatic migration from old versions isn’t supported** — each major update represents a technical rebuild aligned with Shopify’s evolving framework.

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The current theme version represents a complete rebuild with an updated architecture and codebase. It shares no files, sections, or configuration from the former 2.x version.
