Salesforce API Version
The version number of the Salesforce API that a piece of metadata, Apex code, or integration is configured to use, determining which platform features and behaviors are available (e.g., API version…
Definition
The version number of the Salesforce API that a piece of metadata, Apex code, or integration is configured to use, determining which platform features and behaviors are available (e.g., API version 59.0).
In plain English
“A Salesforce API Version is the version number that a piece of metadata, Apex code, or integration is configured to use. Each version (like 59.0, 60.0) determines which platform features and behaviors are available. Newer versions get access to newer features.”
Worked example
Consider a scenario where a senior developer at TerraForm Tech is working with Salesforce API Version to solve a complex business requirement that cannot be addressed with declarative tools alone. They implement Salesforce API Version with proper error handling, write 98% test coverage, and document the solution for future maintainers. The code passes security review on the first attempt.
Why Salesforce API Version matters
The Salesforce API Version is the version number of the Salesforce API that a piece of metadata, Apex code, or integration is configured to use, determining which platform features and behaviors are available (e.g., API version 59.0). Salesforce releases three major API versions per year (Spring, Summer, Winter), with each version adding new features and sometimes changing existing behaviors.
API versioning is how Salesforce maintains backward compatibility while evolving the platform. Code compiled against an older API version continues to behave as it did, even when newer versions change behaviors. Mature development practices keep code on reasonably current API versions, upgrading periodically to access new features while testing for any behavior changes.
How organizations use Salesforce API Version
Upgrades API versions in their managed package periodically to access new features while testing for changes.
Trains developers on API versioning as foundational Salesforce platform knowledge.
Maintains a policy of staying within a few versions of current to balance stability with new features.
Trust & references
Straight from the source — Salesforce's reference material on Salesforce API Version.
- Check for API VersionsSalesforce Help
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Q1. What is a Salesforce API Version?
Q2. How often are new API versions released?
Q3. Why does versioning matter?
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