API v1 Enters Beta

Today the Dropbox API team is opening the beta for the first major update to the API since its initial launch in July 2010. Version 0 served as the foundation, and the new v1 release introduces substantial changes designed to expand what developers can build with Dropbox.

What's New in v1

Web apps now have first-class support, alongside the reintroduction of official "app folders" (previously called "sandboxes"). The developer site has been redesigned with improved documentation and step-by-step tutorials to lower the barrier to entry.

The API surface itself has grown significantly. New capabilities include:

  • Improved file sharing and streaming
  • File name search
  • Support for file revisions
  • Enhanced upload options that handle potential file conflicts and prevent accidental overwrites

Security has also been tightened. A new single sign-on authorization flow is available for Android and iOS, giving mobile users a more streamlined authentication experience.

Updated SDKs

All official SDKs—iOS, Android, Python, Ruby, and Java—have been updated to implement the new features, with comprehensive documentation included.

Early Access

The beta is open to forum developers first. Feedback is requested, ranging from documentation typos to server bugs. The API team invites developers to try the new API and share their input via the Dropbox forums.