Streamline Your Shopify App Development Using Shopify CLI

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. What is Shopify CLI?
3. Benefits of Using Shopify CLI
4. Installation of Shopify CLI
5. Logging into Shopify Partners Account
6. Creating a Shopify Node project
7. Adding Scopes to the Project
8. Installing the Shopify App
9. Embedding the Shopify App
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the tutorial for Shopify app development using Node and React. We will focus on the usage of Shopify CLI, as it has become the preferred method for creating Shopify apps. We will cover the installation of Shopify CLI, logging into your Shopify Partners account, creating a Shopify Node project, adding scopes to the project, installing the Shopify app, and embedding it into your Shopify store. By the end of this tutorial, you will have a better understanding of how to leverage Shopify CLI for efficient app development on the Shopify platform. So let's dive in!

1. What is Shopify CLI?

Shopify CLI is a command-line tool provided by Shopify that facilitates the development and deployment of Shopify apps. It offers a streamlined approach to app development, enabling developers to create, test, and deploy apps more efficiently. Shopify CLI takes care of the repetitive tasks involved in setting up a new project, such as installing modules, frameworks, and app utilities, allowing developers to focus on writing high-quality code.

2. Benefits of Using Shopify CLI

Using Shopify CLI for app development offers several advantages, including:

• Simplified setup: Shopify CLI automates the installation of required modules, frameworks, and app utilities, reducing the time and effort required to set up a new project.
• Efficient development workflow: Shopify CLI provides a range of powerful commands and utilities that streamline the development process, enabling developers to create apps faster and with fewer errors.
• Improved testing capabilities: Shopify CLI includes testing tools that allow developers to test their apps locally before deploying them to ensure they meet the desired specifications.
• Seamless deployment: Shopify CLI simplifies the deployment process by providing commands to package and deploy apps directly from the command line. This eliminates the need for manual deployment processes and reduces the risk of errors during deployment.

3. Installation of Shopify CLI

To get started with Shopify CLI, you need to install it on your system. The installation process may vary depending on your operating system. Follow the steps below to install Shopify CLI on your machine:

1. Step 1: Check if you have the required dependencies installed. Ensure that Node.js version 2.7 or higher is installed on your system.

2. Step 2: Ensure that you have a Shopify Partners account. If you don't have one, sign up for a Shopify Partners account.

3. Step 3: Install Shopify CLI using one of the following methods based on your operating system:

   • For macOS users: Open a terminal window and run the command brew tap shopify/shopify to tap the Shopify repository. Then run brew install shopify-cli to install Shopify CLI.
   • For Windows or Linux users: Visit the Shopify CLI installation page on the Shopify website, and follow the instructions provided.

4. Step 4: Verify the installation by running the command shopify version. This command should display the version of Shopify CLI installed on your system.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Shopify CLI on your machine. Now let's proceed to the next step and log into your Shopify Partners account.

4. Logging into Shopify Partners Account

Before you can start creating a new project using Shopify CLI, you need to log into your Shopify Partners account. Follow the steps below to log in:

1. Open a terminal window or command prompt.
2. Run the command shopify login. This command will open a login window in your default web browser.
3. Enter your Shopify Partners account credentials and click "Log in."

Once you have successfully logged in, you can proceed to create a new Shopify Node project using Shopify CLI.

5. Creating a Shopify Node project

With Shopify CLI, creating a new Shopify Node project is fast and straightforward. Follow the steps below to create a new project:

1. Make sure you are in the desired directory where you want to create the project.
2. Run the command shopify node create. This command will prompt you to enter the name of your Shopify app.
3. Enter the desired name for your app.
4. Select whether you want your app to be public or custom.
5. Specify the location for the Shopify app to be created. You can choose your partner organization or a specific development store.
6. Wait for Shopify CLI to clone the Shopify app repository and set up your project.

Once the project creation process is complete, you will see the project files and directories in your chosen location. You can now start working on your Shopify app.

6. Adding Scopes to the Project

Scopes define the permissions that your Shopify app has when interacting with a store. You can add or modify scopes in your Shopify project's environment file or server file. It is recommended to add scopes in the environment file to keep the configuration separate. Follow the steps below to add scopes:

1. Open the project's environment file (env file) in a text editor.
2. Locate the existing scopes configuration or add a new line to specify the desired scopes.
3. Each scope should be written as a separate line in the format SCOPE_NAME=1, where SCOPE_NAME is the name of the scope you want to add.
4. Save the changes to the environment file.

By adding scopes, you can define the level of access your app will have when interacting with the Shopify API. This allows you to control what resources your app can read or modify.

7. Installing the Shopify App

Once you have set up your Shopify app project and added the required scopes, you can install the app in your development store. Follow the steps below to install the app:

1. In your command line interface, ensure you are in the project's root directory.
2. Run the command shopify serve or shopify node serve. This command will start the development server and provide a tunnel URL.
3. Copy the provided tunnel URL and open it in your web browser.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the app on your Shopify development store.

By installing the app, you can test its functionality and see how it integrates with your Shopify store. You can also customize the app's settings and permissions as needed.

8. Embedding the Shopify App

Once the Shopify app is installed in your development store, you can embed it into your Shopify Admin page using the Shopify App Bridge. The App Bridge allows you to create a seamless integration between your app and the Shopify Admin interface. Follow the steps below to embed your app:

1. In your Shopify Partners account, open the Apps page.
2. Find your Shopify app and navigate to the App Setup section.
3. Update the App URL and the Authentication Callback URL with the appropriate URLs provided by the Shopify CLI during installation.
4. Save the changes.

By embedding the app, you allow your merchant customers to access and use your app's features directly from their Shopify Admin interface. This enhances the user experience and improves the usability of your app.

10. Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have covered the basics of using Shopify CLI for Shopify app development. We discussed the benefits of using Shopify CLI, the installation process, logging into your Shopify Partners account, creating a Shopify Node project, adding scopes to the project, installing the Shopify app, and embedding it into your Shopify store. By following these steps, you can streamline your app development workflow and create powerful Shopify apps more efficiently. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced developer, Shopify CLI is a valuable tool for enhancing your Shopify app development experience. Start using Shopify CLI today and take your Shopify app development to the next level!

Highlights

• Shopify CLI simplifies the development and deployment of Shopify apps.
• It automates repetitive tasks and provides efficient commands and utilities.
• Installing Shopify CLI is easy and can be done based on your operating system.
• Logging into your Shopify Partners account allows you to access the necessary resources.
• Creating a Shopify Node project is a streamlined process with Shopify CLI.
• Adding scopes to your project enables your app to access specific resources and permissions.
• Installing the Shopify app in your development store allows for testing and customization.
• Embedding the app using the Shopify App Bridge enhances the user experience.

FAQs

Q: Can I use Shopify CLI for app development with languages other than Node and React?

A: Yes, besides Node and React, Shopify CLI supports other programming languages, such as Ruby on Rails. Depending on your project requirements, you can choose the appropriate language and framework.

Q: Is Shopify CLI suitable for both beginner and advanced developers?

A: Yes, Shopify CLI provides a user-friendly interface and powerful features that cater to the needs of developers at all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, Shopify CLI can facilitate your app development process.

Q: Can I add custom features and functionality to my Shopify app created with Shopify CLI?

A: Absolutely! Shopify CLI provides a solid foundation for app development, but you can extend its functionality by adding custom code, integrating third-party APIs, and utilizing Shopify's expansive ecosystem of apps and services.

Q: Can I deploy and publish my Shopify app directly from Shopify CLI?

A: Yes, Shopify CLI offers commands to package and deploy your Shopify app directly from the command line. This simplifies the deployment process and ensures that your app reaches a wider audience.

Q: Are there any limitations or restrictions when using Shopify CLI?

A: While Shopify CLI is a versatile tool for Shopify app development, it's important to consider any limitations or restrictions imposed by Shopify's platform policies. These policies ensure security, data privacy, and overall quality of apps built on Shopify. It is recommended to review and comply with these policies during the development process.