Atlassian has announced a significant improvement for Connect app developers by enabling incremental adoption of Forge-powered features directly inside existing Connect apps. This innovation removes the need for separate companion apps, streamlining development and enhancing user experience.
- Connect apps can now integrate Forge modules incrementally.
- New CLI tool converts Connect descriptors to Forge manifests quickly.
- Over 100 apps have started adopting Forge features during pilot.
What happened
Atlassian has introduced a new capability that allows developers maintaining Connect apps to incorporate Forge modules incrementally without needing to rewrite their apps or create separate Forge companion apps. This development enables access to powerful new extension points and UI features offered by Forge while preserving the existing app structure and Marketplace listing.
Using an automated command-line interface (CLI) tool, developers can convert their existing Connect app descriptors into Forge manifests with ease. After a brief setup, they can begin adding Forge-powered modules at their own pace, with the initial module integration taking less than an hour. This process keeps the original Connect app intact and fully functional, allowing gradual testing and deployment.
Why it matters
Previously, Connect app developers faced cumbersome workarounds such as building companion Forge apps to leverage the newer platform features, resulting in increased complexity and a fragmented user experience. This new incremental adoption path significantly reduces development overhead, allowing more apps to evolve naturally toward Forge and benefit from its capabilities.
The seamless upgrade path maintains customer trust by preserving existing Marketplace listings, ratings, and installs, ensuring no disruption during transition. Additionally, Atlassian’s tooling and documentation support developers throughout the adoption journey, fostering faster innovation and integration of enhanced app functionalities.
What to watch next
Developers should check eligibility criteria as some app types—such as Bitbucket Connect apps or those using certain features—are not yet supported for Forge integration. Monitoring Atlassian’s updates on limitations and fixes will be important as these restrictions evolve to broaden adoption possibilities.
Atlassian plans ongoing community engagement, including events and live demos, to support developers exploring this transition. Tracking these engagement opportunities and guidance resources will help Connect app developers maximize Forge’s benefits while managing incremental migration effectively.