Oracle APEX 20.1: Building Modern Web Apps Easier Than Ever

Oracle Application Express (APEX) is renowned for its low-code approach to building sophisticated web applications. With its landmark version 20.1, APEX sets a new benchmark in rapid development, beautiful interfaces, and rock-solid security. Let’s explore what makes this version special:

Design Inspired: The Redwood Experience

APEX 20.1 has fully embraced Oracle’s Redwood design system. This brings a sleek, modern aesthetic to the entire APEX development environment. The redesigned interface seamlessly integrates with other Oracle products, while features like automatic dark/light mode sync with your system preferences. This isn’t just about better looks – it makes working in APEX more intuitive and enjoyable.

Faceted Search Revolutionized

If you thought Faceted Search was already powerful, APEX 20.1 raises the bar! New features include:

• Cascading Lists of Values: Create dependencies between facets, allowing them to dynamically filter each other for a super streamlined search experience.
• Conditional Facets: Show or hide facets based on values selected in other facets, ensuring your users see an uncluttered, relevant UI.
• Compact Count Display: Cleanly display counts (e.g., “1K+” ) instead of large numbers.
• Total Row Count: Automatically add a row to display the total count of results.
• Top Counts Sort: Sort facets by the number of entries, giving your users an immediate sense of data distribution.

More Power Under the Hood

APEX 20.1 isn’t just about the user interface. Significant enhancements include:

• REST Data Source Enhancements: Improved support and integration for RESTful services, unlocking wider data connections for your applications.
• New Chart Types: Expanded charting options let you visualize data in even more impactful ways.
• Performance Boosts: Enjoy faster load times and enhanced responsiveness, especially when dealing with large datasets.

Upgrade Time? How to Get Started

Upgrading to APEX 20.1 delivers a host of benefits, but it’s worth considering your current setup.

• Oracle Database: APEX 20.1 requires Oracle Database 11.2.0.4 or higher. If you’re running an older database version, you’ll need to upgrade that first.
• Compatibility Check: Run the APEX Advisor within your existing APEX workspace to identify any potential compatibility issues with custom code or components.

Why APEX Matters

In a development landscape bursting with frameworks and trends, APEX remains a compelling choice for several reasons:

• Speed: Nothing beats APEX when it comes to building and deploying database-driven web applications quickly.
• Security: Built with security in mind, APEX benefits from Oracle’s rigorous security standards and continuous updates.
• Cost-Effectiveness: APEX is included with your Oracle Database license, making it a great choice for budget-conscious development.

The Future is Bright

Oracle APEX 20.1 reaffirms that APEX is a platform constantly evolving to meet the needs of modern developers. With its emphasis on user experience, developer productivity, and a tight relationship with the Oracle Database ecosystem, the future looks very promising for APEX. If you haven’t explored it yet, now is a great time to see what low-code development can do for you!