Shopify Now Updates Cart Token Format for AJAX and Storefront GraphQL Cart APIs
Shopify recently updated how the cart token is formatted in both the AJAX Cart and Storefront GraphQL Cart APIs. While the APIs continue to work as expected, these tokens now include a c1- prefix an important detail for developers to note Shopify Community+6Daily.dev+6levelupjosh.com+6LinkedIn+1Shopify Community+1.
What Changed
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Cart tokens generated by the AJAX API now come with a
c1-prefix (e.g.,c1-abc123...). -
The Storefront GraphQL Cart API reflects the same format change.
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Functionality remains intact: carts can still be created, updated, and fetched, just with updated token formatting .
Why This Matters
1. Token Compatibility
If your setup shares cart tokens between AJAX and Storefront GraphQL such as using the AJAX token to fetch cart details via GraphQL you’ll need to check for that c1- prefix. Without it, your storefront might fail to retrieve or modify the cart correctly .
2. Seamless UX Across Platforms
For headless stores or hybrid themes leveraging both API types, consistent token recognition is essential. Now tokens are standardized across scenarios, ensuring smoother cross-platform experiences.
3. No Disruption to Live Stores
Shopify’s change is backward-compatible. Existing functionality continues to work without adjustments unless your code explicitly validates token formats.
How to Adapt
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Audit your code where cart tokens are read or parsed check for length, prefix handling, or custom validation.
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Update logic to accept both token formats (with and without
c1-), to support legacy users. -
Test thoroughly: add products via AJAX, load via Storefront GraphQL, and confirm the cart behaves consistently.
Bottom Line
This update offers smoother integration between different cart APIs, but requires attention for those using shared or custom token logic. It’s a subtle change with strong reliability upside minimally disruptive, yet smart for long-term compatibility.
If you’d like help auditing your cart handling logic or ensuring compatibility in your Shopify themes or headless setup, EcomSpiders offers free consultation. We can help you implement best practices, test edge cases, and future-proof your store reach out at EcomSpiders.com anytime.
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