Claris FileMaker 2025: A New Chapter for AI-Driven Custom Apps

One of the most anticipated updates is the introduction of native AI capabilities directly into the FileMaker platform. Developers can now leverage built-in script steps and functions for tasks like semantic search, natural language processing, and even PDF summarization. Crucially, these AI features are designed to be model-agnostic: users can connect to cloud-based services like OpenAI, Cohere, or Anthropic—or choose to run open-source LLMs on-premise for full data sovereignty.

Improvements in Script Manager
On the development side, FileMaker 2025 brings several long-requested features that improve day-to-day scripting and layout work. Custom functions can finally be organized into folders, making complex systems easier to manage. Script steps are now collapsible, which significantly improves script readability—especially in long workflows. There are also several new functions, such as GetRecordIDsFromFoundSet() and GoToListOfRecords(), which give developers more powerful ways to manipulate found sets and user interactions.

Change in SQL parser
Perhaps one of the more technical yet important changes is FileMaker’s updated SQL parser, which now uses ANTLR4. This enhancement enables support for more sophisticated SQL statements, including INTERVAL, FETCH NEXT, and table renaming—features that open up new options for working with complex data logic. On the server side, OData endpoints have been upgraded to support aggregate functions like sum, average, and group-by operations, enabling more efficient reporting and analytics.

Connect & Studio
Claris is also introducing a new licensing model that unifies the platform under one simplified plan. With a single license, users gain access to FileMaker, Claris Studio, and Claris Connect—removing barriers between tools and encouraging deeper integration across workflows. The Starter tier includes 50 live Connect flows and unlimited use of Claris Studio web views (until September 8, 2025), while the Max tier offers unlimited flows and access to advanced features. Claris Studio continues to evolve as a front-end builder for public-facing data collection apps. With support for iFrames, custom views, and prefilled forms, Studio becomes an essential tool for creating lightweight, customer-friendly interfaces—perfectly integrated via Claris Connect.

FileMaker Server 2025
On the infrastructure side, FileMaker Server 2025 adds meaningful enhancements. There’s now native support for Ubuntu 24 and Let’s Encrypt SSL, which simplifies deployment and automates certificate management. Admins can configure and manage AI models directly from the Admin Console—including token limits, model access, and fine-tuning options—bringing enterprise-level AI control to the platform. Improvements to WebDirect include support for right-click paste and copy, better browser navigation warnings, and more stability overall.

Conclusion
Claris FileMaker 2025 is a maturing platform embracing the future of app development—where AI, integration, and ease of use intersect. For developers and teams already working within the Claris ecosystem, this release offers real opportunities to modernize and future-proof their custom solutions. Whether you’re looking to enhance workflows with AI or simply improve how you build and manage layouts and scripts, FileMaker 2025 is worth exploring.

More tips and tricks on Claris FileMaker 2025 in the next posts...