After 15 years of powering web mapping applications across various industries worldwide, the ArcGIS API for JavaScript Version 3.x will retire on July 1, 2024. This API has been instrumental in enabling developers to create robust mapping solutions for ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Enterprise, and other web mapping applications.

In 2016, Esri unveiled the ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript (previously referred to as Version 4.x), a more advanced, performant, and modern API with a redesigned code base. While development efforts initially split between enhancing Version 3.x and advancing the JavaScript Maps SDK, Esri gradually shifted focus towards the latter, introducing innovative features and improvements primarily in the newer SDK.

Related: ArcGIS Web AppBuilder Retirement

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

What happens when ArcGIS API 3.x for JavaScript is retired?

Following retirement, there will be no further bug fixes or enhancements to Version 3.x, and new deployments to js.arcgis.com will cease. Additionally, technical support for Version 3.x will no longer be available.

Will my apps built with ArcGIS API 3.x for JavaScript continue to work after retirement?

Yes, the retired Version 3.x API will remain hosted on our Content Delivery Network (CDN), ensuring that existing apps relying on this API do not break. However, developers should be aware that browser updates may introduce new issues, which won’t be addressed by API patches.

What action should I take to mitigate the impact of this product retirement?

Developers are encouraged to migrate and, in most cases, rewrite custom web apps using the JavaScript Maps SDK promptly. This transition will unlock superior performance and capabilities, leveraging modern browser technologies. Esri also recommends migrating apps built with configurable apps and builders based on Version 3.x to alternatives based on the JavaScript Maps SDK, such as ArcGIS Experience Builder and ArcGIS Instant Apps.

When will ArcGIS Web AppBuilder retire?

ArcGIS Web AppBuilder Developer edition will retire in July 2024, aligned with the retirement of Version 3.x API. Web AppBuilder in ArcGIS Online will retire in the fourth quarter of 2025, while Web AppBuilder in ArcGIS Enterprise will be deprecated immediately and retired by the first half of 2025.

Migrating to ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript

The JavaScript Maps SDK, powered by WebGL, offers unparalleled capabilities and performance compared to the legacy Version 3.x API. Migrating from Version 3.x often entails application rewriting due to fundamental differences in architecture and coding patterns.

Resources

Esri provides various resources to facilitate the migration process:

1. Tutorials: Step-by-step exercises for beginners to get started with the JavaScript Maps SDK.
2. Fundamentals: Core concepts guide explaining fundamental programming patterns and architecture.
3. Migration Guide: Detailed functionality matrix mapping Version 3.x modules, properties, events, and capabilities to the JavaScript Maps SDK implementation.
4. Samples: Interactive samples showcasing the capabilities of the JavaScript Maps SDK.

Embrace the transition to the JavaScript Maps SDK to unlock the full potential of modern web mapping technologies and ensure the longevity of your mapping solutions.

Disclaimer: This Article was first written by Julie Powell and Yixuan ‘Emily’ Hu. View full story here