Shopify CLI Operations for App Development Jul 07, 2025 | 10 minutes read 8 Likes Getting Started with Shopify CLI for App DevelopmentIf you are building a custom app for a Shopify store, the Shopify CLI is the best option. CLI stands for Command Line Interface, and it helps you create, test, and manage your Shopify app directly from your computer using commands.As a Shopify Development Company, we often use the Shopify CLI to streamline custom app projects efficiently. In this blog post, I will explain what Shopify CLI is, how to install it, and how to use the most common operations. Using the CLI reduces repetitive manual steps, allowing you to focus on building features rather than handling configurations. It also ensures that your app aligns with Shopify’s latest updates and development standards, improving stability and maintainability throughout your project. What is a Shopify App? Shopify apps are custom tools that add new features to your store or integrate it with external services. You can build public apps for many stores or custom apps for one store through Custom Shopify Development services. With Shopify CLI, building these apps becomes simple, fast, and developer-friendly.In addition to adding new features, Shopify apps can automate repetitive tasks, enhance customer experience, and improve store management workflows. Whether you are adding payment gateways, advanced reporting, or marketing tools, building these apps strategically helps your Shopify store stay competitive while aligning with your business goals. What is Shopify CLI?Shopify CLI is a tool that lets developers interact with Shopify from their computer’s terminal. Instead of clicking through Shopify’s admin page, you can use simple commands to:Create a new appServe the app locallyConnect it to your Shopify storeDeploy changesManage extensions and functionsUsing Shopify CLI, a Shopify Development Company can efficiently streamline workflows, test features quickly, and manage app deployment seamlessly for client stores. How to Install Shopify CLI Step 1: Check system requirementsA computer with macOS, Windows, or LinuxNode.js installed (version 18+ is recommended)Git installedStep 2: Install using npmOpen your terminal and run: npm install -g @shopify/cliThis will install the Shopify CLI globally on your system.To check if it’s installed correctly, run: shopify versionIf you see a version number, it means everything is good! Common Shopify CLI OperationsNow that Shopify CLI is installed, let’s look at the most useful commands you’ll need when developing an app.1. Create a New AppTo create a new app, use: shopify app create2. Start DevelopingGo into your app’s folder:cd your-app-nameNow start your app in development mode:shopify app dev3. Connect to Your StoreIf your app is not connected yet, run:shopify login –store your-store-name.myshopify.com4. Install App DependenciesApps usually come with many files and packages. To make sure everything is ready, run:npm install5. Deploy Your AppWhen you’re ready to share or test your app in production, deploy it:shopify app deploy6. Update Your AppIf Shopify CLI tells you a new version is available, you can update it using:npm install -g @shopify/cli7. Add App ExtensionsWant to add extra features like a new admin page, theme block, or checkout extension?Just run: shopify extension create8. Check App StatusTo check if your app is working fine, or see info about your current session, run:shopify app info Shopify App Extensions Shopify App Extensions allow you to add more features to your app — not just on the backend, but directly into the Shopify admin, storefront, or checkout experience.Think of them like plug-ins within your app, letting you insert your app’s features wherever they are needed in Shopify. These extensions can significantly enhance your store’s functionality when paired with Shopify store development services, ensuring your app integrates seamlessly with your overall store strategy.Here are the most common types of app extensions and how they’re used: 1. Admin UI ExtensionsThese extensions add extra pages or settings inside the Shopify admin dashboard.With Shopify CLI, you can generate like this:Shopify extension create –type=admin_linkOnce created, you can serve and preview the extension in your development store:Shopify extension serveThis helps you test the design and behavior directly inside the Shopify Admin interface.2. Theme App ExtensionsThese let you add visual elements (blocks, sections, banners, sliders, etc.) to a Shopify theme without touching the theme code manually.You can use: Shopify extension create –type=theme_app_extension3. Checkout UI Extensions These extensions allow you to customize the Shopify Checkout.You can use: Shopify extension create –type=checkout_ui_extension Why Use Shopify CLI? Saves time Quickly Test, Build, and Deploy Apps Secure Tunnel for Local Testing Auto Updates & Easy MaintenanceBuild Shopify Apps Faster Using CLI Operations Start NowThe Way ForwardShopify CLI is a powerful tool that makes app development much faster and easier. You can create apps, test them, connect to stores, and even deploy them with just a few commands, making it an essential part of efficient Shopify development services for any developer or agency.Here’s a quick recap of what you learned: Task Command Create a new app shopify app create Run app locally shopify app dev Connect to store shopify login Deploy your app shopify app deploy Add extensions shopify extension create Check app info shopify app info Free Consultation Shopify Development CompanyShopify development servicesCustom Shopify DevelopmentShopify store development servicesdevelopersJul 07 2025You may also like Using Shopify CLI to Build Custom Storefront Applications Read More Jun 30 2025 WooCommerce vs Shopify: Which is Better for Your Business? 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