PowerApps Formula Reference: Introduction to the New Formula Editor

As technology evolves, the tools we use must keep pace. On March 21, 2023, the Power Apps Studio took a step forward by introducing a revamped formula editor. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the features of this new formula editor, compare it with the old version, and help you decide whether it’s time to make the switch. And, if at any point you need assistance or additional guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Unveiling the New Formula Editor in Power Apps Studio

The modernized formula editor in Power Apps Studio is inspired by the Monaco code editor. If you’re familiar with Visual Studio Code, you’ll instantly recognize the similarities as it shares the same foundation.

Note: To experience the new editor firsthand, you’ll need to activate this feature in the app settings as it’s currently in preview mode.

Why Consider the New Formula Editor?

When you activate the new formula editor, one thing becomes clear immediately: it’s faster. The response time is brisk, offering a seamless typing experience. One of its standout features is the enriched help and IntelliSense. For instance, if you start typing ‘Patch’, the formula editor instantly shows a comprehensive description, giving you more context and guidance. This enhanced assistance isn’t limited to the formula bar; it extends to the properties pane as well, which was lacking in the previous version.

Reasons to Stay with the Old Editor

While the new editor boasts of advanced features, it does lack a few functionalities present in the older version. For those who relied on the formula reference dropdown panel, it’s absent in the new editor. The ‘find and replace’ function inside the formula bar is also missing, but you can still access a global ‘find and replace’ option via the side panel menu.

Conclusion

After a thorough examination, it’s evident that the new formula editor has an edge over its predecessor, especially in terms of speed and enhanced IntelliSense. While it might be missing a few features, the expectation is that Microsoft will reintroduce them in subsequent releases. Considering a shift to the new editor? It’s a decision well worth contemplating. If you need further insights or have other technical queries, please reach out to us. We’re here to help and ensure you get the best out of your PowerApps formula reference journey.