# Releases

{% hint style="info" %}
If you want to revert to an older version of *Workflower*, please check out the [dedicated download page for older versions](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/releases/download-old-versions).
{% endhint %}

## 2.5.1 - March 16, 2026 <a href="#id-2-5-1" id="id-2-5-1"></a>

**NOW AE 26+ COMPATIBLE!**

### Added

* Full compatibility with After Effects 2026.
* Ability to [define permanent layer name exceptions from alteration](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#define-layer-name-exceptions-from-alteration). To define them, go to *Settings > Layout > Define Layer Name Exceptions from Alteration*.
* Applying a new layer name via [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s) is now faster.
* New function: [Change Comp Items](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#change-comp-items) (right-click on [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose), then select *Change Comp Items*). Allows you to batch-change attributes on all selected comp items in the project panel.
* When [precomposing the current comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#additional-comp-wide-features), you can now choose to *Replace Current Comp in Other Comps with New Comp*.
* When [unprecomposing all precomps in your current comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#additional-comp-wide-features) with Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose), more attributes will now be taken into consideration.
* New function: [Duplicate & Replace Names](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-and-replace-names) (right-click on [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group), then select *Duplicate & Replace Names*). Duplicates layers and groups and replaces given names in all layer names.
* When [duplicating project comp items](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-project-panel-items) (right-click on [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group), then select *Duplicate Project Item/s*), *Workflower* now features the option to replace precomps in new comps with duplicated precomps (a.k.a. *true comp duplication*). **IMPORTANT:** Needs to have the desired precomps in the project panel selected as well.
* New function: [Rename to](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-to) (right-click on [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s), then select *Rename to*). Renames the selected layers either to source or replaces parts of the string.
* When [pre-rendering](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render) comp items from the project panel, they will now be rendered in order of their containment (= comps containing other comps will be rendered later).
* Ability to set the project bit depth for every [pre-render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render) in the *Pre-Rendering Settings*.
* [Allow External Layer Comments](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#allowing-external-layer-comments) has been officially implemented (disabled by default; enable under *Settings > Layout > Allow External Layer Comments*). This feature allows you to add layer comments without *Workflower* overwriting them. This makes *Workflower* compatible with add-ons that rely on writing/reading data to/from layer comments (like *Flatten Layers* or *AutoSway*). *Workflower* achieves this by saving its data to a layer marker when a non-Workflower layer comment is added. Do not remove this marker! Using non-*Workflower* layer comments can reduce performance of *Workflower* functions, so it's recommended to use as few as possible. To return to *Workflower* using layer comments in order to store data, just put in an empty string into the layer comment and execute any *Workflower* function.
* When having 3D lights with environment source within a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp), it's not required anymore to select the environment manually on a separate layer.
* *Workflower's* [shortcuts panel](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts) now features a scrollbar, hence making the panel smaller and easier to use on low-resolution monitors.
* Ability to apply shortcuts to [Push Frame to Photoshop](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#push-frame-to-photoshop) and [Create Control](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-2).
* [Shortcut Slot files](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#shortcut-slots) on Mac or *Individual Scripts* mode on Windows are now much smaller (under 1KB). In case of issues with shortcuts, can be disabled under 'Settings > Shortcuts'.
* Ability to quickly open up AE's *User Presets* folder by right-clicking on *Workflower's* [ScriptUI Panel](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu#main-menu-as-scriptui-panel) and then Shift+Ctrl/Cmd-clicking on *AE Scripts Folder*.
* New bug report UI when an error occurs to make bug reporting easier.
* Updated license framework to v4.4.2.

### Changed

* **ATTENTION:** Due to AE 26+ now occupying Shift+D, the default shortcut for [Select Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#select-group) has been changed to Shift+W (on French keyboards to Shift+Z).
* **ATTENTION (Win Users):** Due to AE now occupying Ctrl+Shift+B, the default shortcut for [Tag / Untag Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#tag-untag-layer-s) has been changed to Ctrl+Shift+3.
* **IMPORTANT:** Changed the [scripting API Variable](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#api-variable) to *workflowerScriptAPI* in order to prevent possible issues stemming from short global variables. Please adapt your scripts to this change. The legacy variable *wfAPI* is currently still active but will be disabled in the future. (You will always be able to use the old variable in coming versions by going to *Settings > System > Use Legacy Scripting API Variable wfAPI*.)
* *Workflower* will now only create a [pre-render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render) folder when actually rendering, and not every time the settings dialog is opened.
* When creating a [transform control](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#creating-transform-control-layers) with [Create Control](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-2), expression-locked properties of *Workflower* layers will now be copied with their pre-expression value to the control layer.

### Fixed

* Fix for online activation connection issues.
* When installing the [WQ plugin](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#id-04-plug-in) for the first time on Mac, *Workflower* will now mark the file as safe so you won't get an error message when opening AE the next time.
* Fixed a bug that would not execute shortcuts on Mac.
* The *Import Shortcuts* dialog now orders the preset names correctly.
* Fixed a bug that would occur when trying to [create a group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#create-group) of multiple groups or layers that were not directly above each other.
* Fixed a bug that could occur when removing a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte).
* Fixed a bug that would enable clone layers within an unlinked [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) when they would be in a disabled group.
* Fixed a bug that prevented unlinking a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) when it contained a 3D model layer.
* Nulls created with [Create Control](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-2) now take the *Default Separated Dimensions* preference into account.
* [Quick Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#quick-refresh-connections-experimental) now properly updates light sources of environment lights.
* Fixed potential expression errors when a layer was renamed which contained an effect with the same name of the layer.

## 2.5 - January 16, 2025 <a href="#id-2-5" id="id-2-5"></a>

**NOW AE 25+ COMPATIBLE!**

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Attention:** If you want to exchange your project with someone who uses *Workflower* 2.0.4 and/or AE 24, you have to [downgrade your project](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#convert-project-to-older-wf-version) beforehand. To do this, go to *Settings > Layout > Convert Project to older WF/AE Version*.
{% endhint %}

### Added

#### Pre-Rendering

* New function: [Pre-Render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render) (Win: Ctrl+F2, Mac: no default shortcut). Pre-renders the selected groups, layers, [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) & precomps. When pre-rendering group/layer, the function effectively renders group's/layer's *Precomp Clone*, so if there's no existing clone, it will be created. To show actual layers again, execute [Show Clone Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#show-clone-layers) (Ctrl/Cmd-click on [Cloning](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp)-button). For visible pre-renders to appear in your final render, set AE's *Proxy Use* to *Current Settings* in *Render Settings*.
* New function: [Show / Hide Pre-Render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#show-hide-pre-render) (Win: Ctrl+Alt+Space, Mac: no default shortcut / Via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Shift-click on [Pre-Render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render)-button). Shows or hides pre-renders.
* New function: [Show / Hide Pre-Render WF Proxy](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#show-hide-pre-render-wf-proxy) (no default shortcut / Via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Ctrl/Cmd-click on [Pre-Render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render)-button). Shows or hides WF proxies of pre-renders. To avoid confusion with *After Effects'* proxies, *Workflower's* pre-render proxies are consistently called *WF Proxies*, as opposed to *AE Proxies*. If you want to show or hide only footage AE proxies, right-click on the function button and click on *Show/Hide Footage AE Proxies*.
* New function: [Push Frame to Photoshop](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#push-frame-to-photoshop) (only available via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Alt/Option-click on [Pre-Render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render)-button). Pushes the current frame to Photoshop and imports it into After Effects' timeline.
* New function: [Mark Pre-Render State](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#mark-pre-render-state) (only available via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Right-click on [Pre-Render](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#pre-render)-button, then click on *Mark Pre-Render Skip State*). Either marks an element to only pre-render still, or marks a group to be skipped when pre-rendering all groups.

#### Masking / Matting

* Ability to [reference a mask on another layer with transforms set correctly](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#adding-linked-masks): [Execute Add / Remove Layer / Mask References](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#add-remove-layer-references) while 2 layers are selected AND 2nd layer has a mask selected. This creates a mask on the 1st layer which is linked to the 2nd layer's mask (i.e. a *Linked Mask*).
* Ability to 'parent' a mask: When you execute [Create Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#create-matte) while a mask is selected on one layer, a layer will be created where the existing mask is copied to and the mask on the original layer will be [linked to the new mask](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#creating-linked-masks) using expressions (i.e. a *Linked Mask*). This enables you to parent the layer with the mask to another layer and animate its position.
* Quickly [set/remove mask references to/from effects](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#adding-removing-effect-masks): Execute [Add / Remove Layer / Mask References](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#add-remove-layer-references) while one layer is selected AND on it mask/s + effect/s are selected. When one layer is selected AND only an effect is selected, removes all mask references from the effect.
* Ability to quickly [create a matte using a *Set Matte* effect](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#single-matte): Right-click on [Create Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#create-matte)-button and click *Switch to FX Matte* (or enable it under *Settings > Matting Settigs*). Now, when executing *Create Matte* on a single layer, a *Set Matte* effect + matte layer will be created.
* Ability to use effect masks on an effect of a [Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-linked-adjustment-layer). After adding the effect mask, simply execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) to apply them to all *Linked Layers*. Please note that this might not always work properly on 3D layers.
* When you execute [Delete Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#delete-layer-clone-group) while having a mask selected, *Workflower* will remove the mask as well as all [Linked Masks](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#adding-linked-masks) referencing the mask (and their corresponding effect).
* When you execute [Delete Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#delete-layer-clone-group) while having a [Linked Mask](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#adding-linked-masks) or its corresponding effect selected, *Workflower* will remove the *Linked Mask* as well as the effect.
* Selected masks will now be checked for unique naming during [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) too.

#### Project Items

* New Feature: [Sort Project Items](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#sort-project-items) (Win: Alt+Shift+F2, Mac: no default shortcut / Via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Alt/Option-click on [Create Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#create-group)-button). Sorts comps, footage, imported projects and clones in the project panel. By default, folders with label *None* will be excluded. Go to the *Sorting Settings* to customize more settings.
* [Import and directly sort files](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#import-and-sort-file-s) by right-clicking on the [Sort Project Items](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#sort-project-items)-button. This function additionally offers the ability to set the framerate on EXR sequences on import when creating a layered composition.
* New Feature: [Create Project Item Folder](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#create-project-item-folder). Right-click on the *Create Group*-button, then select *Create Project Item Folder* to create a folder from all currently selected project items (as opposed to AE's function which does NOT create a folder that contains selected items).
* New Feature: [Dissolve Project Item Folder](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#dissolve-project-item-folder). Right-click on the *Dissolve Group*-button, then select *Dissolve Project Item Folder* to dissolve the currently selected project item folder.
* When right-clicking on the [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group)-button, you can now access [Duplicate Project Item/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-project-panel-items) too.

#### Layer Storing

* New feature: [Save Global Store Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#saving-global-store-comps) (Right-click on the *Store Layers-*&#x62;utton). Saves a *Global Store Comp,* meaning that the *Store Comp* is accessible across AE projects.
* New feature: [Load Global Store Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#loading-global-store-comps) (Right-click on the *Paste Stored Layers-*&#x62;utton). Loads a *Global Store Comp* that was previously saved via *Save Global Store Comp*.
* You can now store and paste *Store Comp* *2* and *3* via the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Right-click on the [Store Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#store-layers)-button or [Paste Stored Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#paste-stored-layers)-button and click *Store Layer/s by ID* / *Paste Stored Layer/s by ID'* (Previously these were only available via shortcut.)
* You can now choose to paste stored layers to the current time indicator. This is disabled by default; enable it by going to *Settings > Miscellaneous > When Pasting Stored Layers, paste to Current Time Indicator*.

#### Layer Relationships

* New feature: [Show / Hide Layer Relationships](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#show-hide-layer-relationships) (no default shortcut / Via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Alt/Option+click on *Refresh Layout*-button). Toggles layer relationships (= layer markers representing effects referencing other layers) on and off in your current comp. Updates during [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout). (Attention: Can slow down *Refresh Layout*; so if too slow, only enable when needed.)

#### **Cloning**

* New [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) type: [Downwards Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#downwards-clone). Grabs all layers in comp downwards from the *Precomp Clone* layer. To use it, select the first layer, then execute *Clone and Precomp* and check *Create Downwards Clone*. To update added/removed source layers, execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections).
* New function: [Show and Solo Clone Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#show-and-solo-clone-layers) (Win: Ctrl+Alt+Return, Mac: no default shortcut / Via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): right-click on [Show Clone Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#show-clone-layers)-button).
* When executing [Show Clone Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#show-clone-layers) on a group header and the group holds a [Group Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#group-clone), the clone layers will now be revealed.
* You can now show/hide clone layers of multiple [Prime Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone) if selected when executing [Show Clone Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#show-clone-layers).
* When executing [Show Clone Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#show-clone-layers) with no layer selected, you can now show/hide all clone layers in comp.
* Compatibility with sources to *Advanced 3D* renderer's *Environment Lights* in [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp). Since it's impossible to read the source information via scripting, you'll have to re-select the source on the *Environment Source* layer created by *Workflower* upon cloning. Afterwards, execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) to include the source in the clone.
* [Quick Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#quick-refresh-connections-experimental) will now take *Compositing Options* on true 3D objects in the *Advanced 3D* renderer into account.
* Ability to choose not to link properties via expressions upon creating a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp).
* Greatly improved the speed when creating & refreshing [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) that contain layers with AE's *Paint* effect.
* During [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout), names of [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) in the project panel will now automatically inherit the *Precomp Clone* layer name as well as always indicate the *Precomp Clone* layer's containing comp with the suffix *(in '\[COMP]')*.
* The icon for a [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone) showing its layers can now be displayed as a marker instead of within the layer name. (On Windows, enabled by default. On Mac, has to be enabled in the *Icons* settings.) This increases performance on showing/hiding and reduces the risk of expression errors originating from the clone.

#### Precomposing

* When using Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose), ability to update all layer references in expressions within the entire project to new comp. Works in every precompose or unprecompose action.
* On the [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) dialog, you can now quickly preprend the current comp name to the precomp name and more.
* When using Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose), ability to set the start timecode of a new precomp to a specific frame (instead of only to zero).
* Ability to precompose multiple groups in Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose). Advanced precompose features for this function are disabled (except for updating expressions).
* Ability to precompose all layers in comp. With no layer selected, hit Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose). Advanced precompose features for this function are disabled (except for updating expressions).
* Ability to precompose your current comp. With no layer selected, hit Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose).
* Ability to unprecompose all precomps in your current comp. With no layer selected, simply hit Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose). (As of now, does not take precomp's transforms into account.)
* [Rig Multi-Pass Layers from Precomp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#rig-multi-pass) now has been officially implemented. With a precomp layer selected, hit Workflower's [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) to access it.

#### Control Creation

* New feature: [Create Control](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-2) (only available via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Alt/Option+click on *Parent Layers to Group*-button). With layer/s selected, creates a null & parents layers to it.
* Ability to create a null control layer to a point control property: Execute [Create Control](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-2) while a point control property is selected.
* Ability to create a transform control layer to a layer: Execute [Create Control](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-2) while the layer's transform property is selected.

#### Miscellaneous

* Compatibility with AE's new Spectrum UI. **IMPORTANT:** Due to AE using a different font in the Spectrum UI, *Workflower* now has to use regular characters as icons in its layer names on both Windows and Mac (previously this was only necessary on Mac). Check out the user guide on [Unavailable Characters](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#unavailable-characters) for more information.
* New feature: [Reveal Project File](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu#reveal-project-file) (via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): right-click on empty space, then click on *Reveal Project File*). Reveals the current project file in the file explorer/finder.
* You can now trim all layers in comp to work area duration by executing [Trim Layer to Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-1) with no layer selected. (Function doesn't extend trims.)
* New function: [Push Comp to Premiere](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#push-comp-to-premiere) (only available via [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): Right-click on [Push Frame to Photoshop](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/pre-rendering#push-frame-to-photoshop)-button, then click on *Push Comp to Premiere*). Pushes the active comp or the currently selected project panel items to Premiere Pro via Dynamic Link.
* Added [KBar functions](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#kbar) for new Workflower functions: *'showLayerRelationships', 'sortProjectItems', 'showAndSoloCloneLayers', 'showMoveIndicator', 'preRender', 'showHidePreRender', 'showHidePreRenderWFProxy', 'pushFrameToPhotoshop', 'markPreRenderState', 'saveGlobalStoreComp', 'loadGlobalStoreComp', 'storeLayersByID', 'pasteLayersByID', 'revealProjectFile', 'createControl'*
* New API function: [wfAPI.kbarExecute('functionName')](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#wfapi.kbarexecute). Similar to [wfAPI.execute()](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#wfapi.execute) but allows to execute a single *Workflower* function through KBar's *Add Scriptlet* feature. If you want to call multiple commands, however, check out the [user guide section on the function](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#wfapi.kbarexecute). (Please note: *wfAPI.kbarExecute()* always creates Workflower undo groups.)
* Updated to aescripts licensing framework 4.3.1.

### Changed

* **IMPORTANT:** To make room for the new pre-render functions on the main menu, [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) has been moved behind the [Create Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#create-group) button (Ctrl/Cmd-click to access it).
* To improve performance when frequently showing/hiding layers of a [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone), connections will now *not* be refreshed on hiding. (Can be re-enabled in the *Cloning* settings.)
* When [refreshing connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) of a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) that shares the same clone comp with a *Precomp Clone* in another comp, the *Precomp Clone* in the current comp will now get a new clone comp (instead of the *Precomp Clone* in the other comp). Additionally, the [Dependent Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#duplicating-a-precomp-clone) within the other comp will now refer to the *Precomp Clone* in their comp.
* [Relabel Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/relabeling#relabel-layer-s) has been renamed to *Relabel Layer / Group / Keyframe* to better reflect its functionality. Additionally, on the shortcuts panel, it has been moved to the *Groups* category.
* [Create Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#create-matte) has been renamed to *Create Matte / Mask* to better reflect its functionality.
* [Add / Remove Layer References](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#add-remove-layer-references) has been renamed to *Add / Remove Layer / Mask References* to better reflect its functionality.
* When you duplicate a regular layer with [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group) and the original layer is contained in a regular [Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-linked-adjustment-layer), the duplicated layer is now added automatically to the *Linked Adjustment Layer* too. You can disable this feature under *Settings > Adjustment Layers*.
* [Linked Adjustment Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-linked-adjustment-layer) will now only be set inactive when the layer is disabled; **not** when it's not solo'd while other layers are solo'ing. This only applies to newly created/refreshed *Linked Adjustment Layers*, not those created in older *Workflower* versions. To return to the way it used to behave, go to *Settings > Adjustment Layers* and enable *Set Linked Adjustments inactive when not solo'd while other Layers are solo'ing*.
* When grouping multiple layers, the lowest layer name will now be suggested as the group's name by default (can be disabled in the *Naming Settings*).
* When precomposing, the suffix *'Comp'* will now **not** be added to the suggested precomp name by default (can be enabled in the *Naming Settings*).
* The default *Renaming Mode Preference* of [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s) has been changed to *Remember Choice*.

### Fixed

* Fixed a bug in [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) that could slow down the function by 2x or sometimes even more when the comp contained [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp).
* Fixed a bug in [Create Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#create-matte) that sometimes caused a [matte created from a *Set Matte* effect (or any other effect)](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#creating-single-mattes-from-effects) to jump to an incorrect position when the base layer didn't have comp dimensions or *Collapse Transformation* enabled.
* Fixed a bug that prevented [Convert Property to Comp Size](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#convert-property-to-comp-size) to work on degrees properties when the After Effects language was anything other than English.
* Fixed a bug that would falsely remove *Ambient* and *Environment* lights from a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) during [Quick Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#quick-refresh-connections-experimental).
* Fixed a bug on Mac that would not allow to flip through naming levels on the [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s) panel properly. However, it's still important to let go of the shortcut immediately after pressing it to avoid flipping through the next naming levels.
* Fixed a bug in [Quick Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#quick-refresh-connections-experimental) that would incorrectly use regular [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) when the [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) comp was stored in a [Store Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#store-layers).
* Fixed the *WQ* plug-in issue message on Mac to reflect the settings dialog on newer Mac OS systems.
* The WQ plug-in launch error on Mac will now ***not*** be triggered anymore on *Workflower* updates. (It may, however, still happen on the first installation.)
* Fixed a bug that would sometimes not switch the view from *Source Name* to *Layer Name* on a comp where Workflower was first executed on.
* Fixed a bug on Mac that would cause AE to freeze when a folder was opened in the Finder from within *Workflower* and the folder path contained special characters.
* Fixed a bug on Mac that would sometimes not display the correct label colors on *Workflower's* panels when you've had AE installed in more than 1 language.
* Fixed a bug that would not properly close all opened comps when updating all comps within the project.
* Fixed a bug when using a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) that would sometimes not link layers with *Element 3D* effect applied properly.
* Fix for local license activation when license server is configured.
* Fix for -38 license deactivation error.
* Fix for -6 activation error.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Tutorial for v2.5 is Coming!**

I’m currently tied up with other projects and haven’t had a chance to create a video tutorial yet, but I’ve heard your feedback, and it’s on my radar. While I can’t promise a timeline, I’ll do my best to get to it when I can.

In the meantime, please refer to the [user guide](#id-2-5) for detailed instructions.
{% endhint %}

## 2.0.4 - January 15, 2024 <a href="#id-2-0-4" id="id-2-0-4"></a>

### Added

* Full compatibility with the new *Advanced 3D* renderer, introduced in AE 24.1.
* [Rename Layers by Number](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layers-by-number) lets you now define by what increment you want to renumber as well as to keep a certain suffix. To do this, go to *Settings > Naming > When executing Rename Layers by Number:*.
* [Rename Layers by Number](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layers-by-number) now also works on project panel items. Make sure to have no layer in your current comp selected, then select your project panel items and execute 'Rename Layers by Number'. IMPORTANT: This will only work when you execute the function from the menu (not via shortcut).
* You can now duplicate project panel items by selecting them and executing [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group). When you duplicate a comp, it will open the timeline of the duplicated comp and make all its [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) independent. IMPORTANT: This will only work when you execute the function from the menu (not via shortcut) AND you don't have any layers in your currently active comp selected (otherwise *Workflower* will duplicate the selected layers)!
* When executing [Paste Stored Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#paste-stored-layers) while [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) are within the selection, *Workflower* will now create unique *Precomp Clones* and potentially update contained [Dependent Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#duplicating-a-precomp-clone) to the new clone comp. Check out the user guide on [Using a Precomp Clone in another Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#using-a-precomp-clone-in-another-comp) for more information.
* *Clones* and *Stored Layers* folders in the project panel will now be identified solely by their name and not their item comment. This makes *Workflower* compatible with add-ons that rely on folder item comments (like [Pro IO](https://aescripts.com/pro-io/)).
* \[Beta feature]: It's now possible to [add layer comments without *Workflower* overwriting them](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#allowing-external-layer-comments). This also makes *Workflower* compatible with a variety of add-ons that rely on writing/reading data to/from the layer comments (like [Flatten Layers](https://aescripts.com/flatten-layers/) or [AutoSway](https://aescripts.com/autosway/)). *Workflower* achieves this by saving its data to a layer marker when a non-*Workflower* layer comment is added. Do not remove this marker! Using non-*Workflower* layer comments can reduce performance of *Workflower* functions, so it's recommended to use as few as possible. To return to *Workflower* using layer comments in order to store data, just put in an empty string into the layer comment and execute any *Workflower* function. Since this feature is still in beta, you have to enable it under *Settings > Layout > Allow External Layer Comments*.
* When right-clicking on some functions on the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu) (like matting-, cloning- or naming-functions), you can now access the dedicated settings page directly.
* You can now quickly access the [Convert all Comps to another Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#convert-all-comps-to-another-layout) function by right-clicking on empty space on the ScriptUI panel and choosing *Export/Import Project*.
* When an error occurs, you can now send a support ticket on the spot, directing you to a pre-populated contact form.
* When you execute a function that requires an active comp and there is no active comp, you will now get an error.
* Added the function [wfAPI.refeshLayouts(comps\[, doNotLabelLayersOutsideToNone\])](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#wfapi.refeshlayouts) to the scripting API. This allows you to refresh the layout of several comps at once, making the overall execution faster.
* Added the functions [wfAPI.isInTagID(layer, tagID)](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#wfapi.isintagid) and [wfAPI.isInTagName(layer, tagName)](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#wfapi.isintagname) to the scripting API. This checks whether a given layer is within a tag group with either a certain ID (0 - 16) or name.

### Changed

* When [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) or [Rename Layers by Number](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layers-by-number) renumber layer names, *Workflower* now doesn't add a space between the original name and the new number when the last character is a *'0'* or a symbol like *'\_'*.
* When you execute [Rename Layers by Number](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layers-by-number), *Workflower* now will try to find a unique name for each selected name *after* the entire renaming process took place.

### Fixed

* Fixed a bug when executing [Reveal Layer Opacity](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#reveal-layer-opacity) that would falsely reveal other properties on a layer.
* Fixed a bug that occurred when showing/hiding [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone) layers and properties on a layer's effect were hidden (e.g. in certain circumstances on *Element 3D* and others).
* Fixed a bug that would occur during [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) after a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) was moved in time and its keyframes became negative.

## 2.0.3 - November 4, 2023 <a href="#id-2-0-3" id="id-2-0-3"></a>

### Added

* Compatibility with After Effects 2024.
* The [Layer Tagging](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers) panels now feature buttons that let you switch between [Tagging](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#tag-untag-layer-s) and [Performing](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#perform-action-on-tagged-layer-s).
* You can now apply keyboard shortcuts to [Trim Layer to Keyframes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes) and [Trim Layer to Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-1).
* When moving [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) layers in time and executing [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout), the keyframes on the *Precomp Clone* layer will now stay exactly where they used to be relative to comp time.
* Unless a [*TTT* marker](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#exempt-layer-from-trimming) has been added, [Dependent Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#duplicating-a-precomp-clone) will now adjust during 'Refresh Layout' to the in/out of their contained layers too. When executing [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group), a *TTT* marker will be added automatically to the *Dependent Clone* (you may change this behavior in the *Cloning Settings*). Remove the marker to make use of the automatic trimming. Since the automatic adjustment of a *Dependent Clones'* in/out point would break legacy comps, a trim exception will be added to all *Dependent Clones* upon executing any *Workflower* function on any comp created with *Workflower* v2.0.2 and lower.
* The speed when using [Add / Remove Layer References](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#add-remove-layer-references) while having two layers selected in order to set an effect layer control dropdown has been improved.
* Ability to limit the calculation of the layer size/s during cropping in [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) to comp size (enabled by default). This will speed things up when you know that the layers to be precomposed are within the bounds of the current comp. When layers stretch beyond the comp size, please disable this checkbox.
* Added the parameter *doNotLabelLayersOutsideToNone* to [*Refresh Layout* in the scripting API](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api#wfapi.refeshlayout). Call it like this: *wfAPI.refreshLayout(\[comp, doNotLabelLayersOutsideToNone])*. This sets the current comp to not label layers outside groups to *None*. Default is false.

### Changed

* To make room for the new shortcuts on the shortcuts panel UI, [Store Layers 4](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#store-layers) and [Paste Stored Layers 4](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#paste-stored-layers) have been removed. You can still access these functions using [KBar](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#kbar).
* When duplicating groups or layers using [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group) and the group/selection contains [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) as well as corresponding [Dependent Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#duplicating-a-precomp-clone), the source comp of the duplicated *Dependent Clones* will now be set to the duplicated *Precomp Clone* source comp.
* When creating a [Group Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#group-clone) and NOT choosing [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone), the created [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) will now be disabled by default since the clone will generally only be used to be referenced by an effect or a [Dependent Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#duplicating-a-precomp-clone) of it will be the layer that's actually visible.
* When performing *Toggle Motion Blur* on a [Tag Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#performing-actions), and a contained layer holds a motion blur effect (*Pixel Motion Blur*, *RSMB*, etc.), the layer's motion blur switch will now be toggled on/off too in addition to the effect.

### Fixed

* Fixed a bug that would prevent *Essential Properties* of the same type (e.g. text) from being referenced properly in a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp).
* Fixed a bug that could occur when trying to [unprecompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) layers in certain situations (e.g. when the precomp was within a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte)).
* Fixed a bug that would additionally [precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) the [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) layer when a layer within a group with *Group Matte* was precomposed.
* Fixed a bug that would occur when creating a group with the new *Advanced 3D* renderer selected in AE's beta.
* Fixed a bug that could create a *Missing Font* error upon reopening a project file created with *Workflower*.
* Fixed a bug that would accidentally execute some functions twice when executed from the [ScriptUI Panel](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu#main-menu-as-scriptui-panel).
* Fixed a bug that would use a wrong date naming format for log files.
* Fixed a bug that could falsely create a mov file titled *\[WF] Interpretation Reference* in the project panel when opening Workflower's settings.

## 2.0.2 - June 30, 2023 <a href="#id-2-0-2" id="id-2-0-2"></a>

### Fixed

* Fixed a bug that would generate an error after applying a layer name using [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s).
* Fixed a bug that would create an expression error on a text layer's *Source Text* property in a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp).

## 2.0.1 - June 26, 2023 <a href="#id-2-0-1" id="id-2-0-1"></a>

### Added

* The [ScriptUI Panel](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu#main-menu-as-scriptui-panel) now uses smaller buttons by default. To revert back to larger buttons, right-click on any button and select *Use Large Buttons*.
* On the [ScriptUI Panel](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu#main-menu-as-scriptui-panel), center-clicking on empty space will now execute [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout).
* \[WF beta feature:] Compatibility with proper 3D objects (GLB, OBJ) using the *Mercury 3D* renderer in *AE's* beta. Since those objects can't contain effects, no effects will be added when the layer is a [Group Opacity Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/miscellaneous-group-functions#group-opacity), [Prime Clone Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone), [Clone in Comp Base](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-in-comp) or [Matte Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes). Instead, control the opacity of a *Group Opacity Layer* by clicking on the original opacity property; Control the *Prime Clone Layer* opacity from the *Custom Opacity* Slider on the layer's corresponding effect on the *Precomp Clone*; Control the *Clone in Comp* properties from the clone itself; Control the *Matte Layer* properties from the *Matte Merge Layer Effect*. Also: *Mercury 3D* objects can't set track mattes, therefore, when adding a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte), you might want to create a [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone) of your contained *Mercury 3D* objects first before creating the *Group Matte*.
* \[WF beta feature:] Ability to change the comp's renderer from *Mercury 3D* to *Classic 3D* after having created a *Prime Clone* containing *Mercury 3D* objects in *AE's* beta. When you execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) on a clone that contains *Mercury 3D* objects, the clone's renderer will be always set to *Mercury 3D* regardless of the source comp's renderer. This enables you to work with proper 3D objects while being able to use blend modes, track mattes, etc. on non-*Mercury 3D* layers in your comp.
* When re-assigning a [Tag Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers) and the newly selected *Tag Group* already contains layers, you can now choose to either merge or swap both *Tag Groups*.
* On *Workflower's* shortcuts panel, you now have the ability to export and import shortcuts to/from a txt file.
* You can now assign shortcuts that contain the *Tab* key on Workflower's shortcuts panel.

### Changed

* When merging while re-assigning a [Tag Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers), the newly merged *Tag Group* will now always take on the name of the tag that it was re-assigned to.

### Fixed

* Since AE will display scripting progress bars as of 23.5, *Workflower* will now disable them automatically during *Workflower's* execution on Windows, and guide you to disable them on Mac. (The automatic disabling mechanism seems to fail on Mac at the moment. Hopefully, this will be fixed in the future.)
* Circumvented permissions issues that could prevent shortcuts slots from being installed on Mac. Now, an alternative method to install the slots will be used when the original one fails.
* Fixed a bug on Mac or when using *Individual Scripts Mode* on Windows that prevented the user, in certain circumstances, to be informed correctly to set a shortcut for the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu#main-menu-as-dialog) when there was none.

## 2.0 - May 12, 2023 <a href="#id-2-0" id="id-2-0"></a>

**FINALLY AE 23/24+ COMPATIBLE!**

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Attention:** If you work in AE 22 (no matter whether you use Workflower v2 or v1 in it) and you want to open up a project that was created in AE 23/24 + Workflower v2, you have to [downgrade that project](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#convert-project-to-older-wf-version) beforehand. To do this, go to *Settings > Layout > Convert Project to older WF/AE Version*.
{% endhint %}

### Added

#### ScriptUI Panel

* Option to use *Workflower's* [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu) as a [ScriptUI Panel](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu#main-menu-as-scriptui-panel). Install *Workflower ScriptUI Panel.jsxbin* into AE's *ScriptUI Panels* folder. Please note that it is still mandatory to additionally have *--- Workflower ---.jsxbin* installed in AE's *Scripts* folder.

#### Matting

* [All matting tools](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting) (creating single/multi-layer mattes, creating *Group Mattes* & merging mattes) now conform to AE's new *Selectable Track Matte* system (introduced in AE 23). Especially [Group Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) benefit significantly, making them many times faster. When, within a *Group Matte*, existing track mattes have to be merged or you reference another matte layer (like the group header), an [Intermediate Matte Merge](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-mattes-in-ae-23-and-upwards) (*Inter-Merge*) has to be added above the *Group Matte Layer* that is being used as track matte for group layers. Read the [updated user guide chapter on matting](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting) for more information.
* If you create a [Matted Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-matted-adjustment-layer) to a single Layer in AE 23 and up, an adjustment layer with a track matte set to the selected layer will be created (instead of an additional clone).
* When you execute *Create Matte* on a single layer while having a *Set Matte* effect on the layer selected, now the created matte layer will **not** be used as a track matte but the *Set Matte* layer control will be set to the new matte layer instead. This also works for other effects too, e.g. to create to depth map layer to a *Camera Lens Blur* effect. Please read the [user guide chapter on *Matting*](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#creating-single-mattes-from-effects) for more information.
* [Invisible Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#invisible-mattes) now display the icon ‡ for easier detection of the layer type.
* *Matte Clone Collection Groups* will now get deleted if there are no clones within anymore upon executing [Merge Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes).

#### Relabeling

* Using [Relabel Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/relabeling#relabel-layer-s), you can now affect keyframe label colors, too (introduced in AE 22.6). Instead of layers, select keyframes and execute *Relabel Layer/s*.
* When keyframes are transferred (for example when *Workflower* adds a special opacity slider to apply group opacity), keyframe label colors are now transferred as well.
* Now, when you have keyframes selected and you execute [Select Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#select-group), all keyframes of the selected label color will be selected.
* When using the relabel panel with keyframes selected and you hold down *Ctrl+Alt* (Win) / *Cmd+Opt* (Mac) while clicking on a label color, all keyframes in the current comp with the old label color old the selected keyframe will change to the new one.
* On the relabel panel, you can now press keyboard shortcuts to quickly apply label colors (0 - 9, A - G).

#### Learning

* Extended tooltips with additional info when hovering over function buttons. You can also disable the extended tooltips under the *Miscellaneous* settings tab.
* Ability to disable any kind of tooltip on the 'Main Menu'. To do this, go to the *Miscellaneous* settings tab.
* When first executing certain functions (like creating a group), *Workflower* will now display useful tips about the functions.
* When you right-click on any function in the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu), a menu will open with links to the user guide and video tutorial chapter on the function.

#### Layer Tagging

* New functions: [Tag / Untag Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#tag-untag-layer-s) & [Perform Action on Tagged Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#perform-action-on-tagged-layer-s). Tag layers and groups with a specified label color by using the *Tag / Untag Layer/s* panel. Afterwards, use *Perform Action on Tagged Layer/s* to execute any of these actions on them: activating (= enable & solo if necessary), selecting, enabling, soloing, locking, toggling effects, toggling motion blur & jumping to the top-most layer of a *Tag Group*.
* New functions: [Activate / Deactivate Tag Group 1 / 2 / 3](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#activate-deactivate-tag-group-1-2-3): (De)activate *Tag Group 1*, *2* or *3* quickly without the need for first opening up the *Perform Action on Tagged Layer/s* panel. *Activate / Deactivate Tag Group 3* is only available via shortcut.

#### Group Functions

* Now you can expand/collapse a group simply by [double-clicking on a group header](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#expand-collapse-a-group-by-double-clicking). Select a group by [Alt/Option+double-clicking](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#select-a-group-by-alt-option+double-clicking), enable/disable by [Shift+double-clicking](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/disable-solo-and-lock-groups#enable-disable-a-group-by-shift+double-clicking), and solo by [Alt/Option+Shift+double-clicking](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/disable-solo-and-lock-groups#solo-unsolo-a-group-by-ctrl-cmd+shift+double-clicking). Only works when you have a single group header selected. For multiple groups, use *Workflower's* dedicated functions. For the double-clicking behavior to work, you need to have the *WQ* plug-in installed that's provided in the installation files. Read the [installation instructions](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#step-1-installing-the-script) on how to set it up.
* When you execute [Ungroup Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#ungroup-layers) on a group-less layer, it will now be moved after the next group.
* When you create a group of a single layer, *Workflower* will now suggest the layer name as the group name.

#### Trimming

* New function: [Trim Layer to Keyframes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes) (*Ctrl/Cmd*+click on *Paste Stored Layers* button / Not available via shortcut).
* New function: [Trim Layer to Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#trim-layer-to-keyframes-1) (*Alt/Option*+click on *Paste Stored Layers* button / Not available via shortcut). With two layers selected, trims 2nd to 1st selected layer. With more than two layers selected, either trims to 1st layer, or trims 1st layer to other layers.

#### Precomposing

* When using *Workflower's* [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) while having multiple layers selected, you now have the option to create a precomp for each selected clip.
* When using *Workflower's* [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) and having checked *Adjust Composition to the Time Span of the Selected Layers*, you can now add handles before and after the precomposed clip/s.
* When using *Workflower's* [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose), you now have the option to choose *Leave only Transform Attributes* if you have a single layer with a source item.
* When using *Workflower's* [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) with *Leave all/only Transform Attributes* checked, you can now choose to *Adjust Composition to the Time Span of the Selected Layers* too.
* When executing [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) while having a precomp layer selected, you can choose to [rig multi-pass layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#rig-multi-pass) from the precomp's contained layers (still experimental!).

#### Naming

* When you execute [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s) while having a layer property selected, the selected layer will now be renamed to the property name, e.g. to the selected mask name. (Please note that this is disabled by default. Enable it by going to *Settings > Naming > When Property is selected while executing 'Rename Layer/s', rename Layer to it*.)
* Group elements (*Group Mattes*, *Group Inter-Merges*, *Group Adjustment Layers* and Group *Clones*) will be renamed to their group header name automatically within [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout). You can also deactivate this in the *Naming Settings*.
* [Matte Merge](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes) layers will be renamed to their matted layer name automatically within [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout). You can also deactivate this in the *Naming Settings*.

#### KBar Integration

* Now you can execute *every* *Workflower* function from *KBar*. (4 previously not available functions were added + 7 functions introduced in v2.0.) Check out the user guide chapter on [Installation](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#kbar) for more.
* When installing a *WF KBar Toolbar* from the *Layout Settings*, the buttons will now be installed *without* modifier keys.

#### Miscellaneous

* When you execute [Reveal Layer Opacity](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#reveal-layer-opacity) while having properties selected, all contained properties with an opacity will now be revealed too (e.g. clone stroke opacity properties when having the *Paint* effect selected).
* When using [Add / Remove Layer References](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#add-remove-layer-references) and the 1st selected layer has properties selected that contain a layer control (e.g. *Set Matte* effect) & only 2 layers in total are selected, the function now sets the layer control to the 2nd layer (regardless of whether it's a *Precomp Clone*, *Matte Merge Layer*, or *Linked Adjustment Layer*).
* Upon executing [Preview Custom Clone Size](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#preview-custom-clone-size), the *Precomp Size* of the *Precomp Clone* will now be automatically set to *Custom Size*.
* In the *Cloning Settings*, you now have the ability to turn off automatic *Refresh Connections* of *Precomp Clones* that happen within various functions, e.g. when executing *Parent Layers to Group*, clones will be generally updated to the new parent. However, this can slow down the execution of these functions significantly when working with larger clones and thereby hinder your workflow. When turned off, you will have to execute *Refresh Connections* yourself to update these clones.
* Functions have been updated to work when AE's new *Mercury 3D* renderer is active.
* *Workflower* now has its own scripting API in beta. Please be aware that the API is experimental at the moment and has to be used with caution! Some functions might not work as expected. Read the [user guide on the Scripting API](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/scripting-api) for more information.

#### System

* Updated to *AEScripts* licensing framework 4.1.4.
* Improved support and better error messaging for online activation.
* When checkboxes hold a tooltip with additional info, the icon *\[ ? ]* will now indicate this.
* *Workflower* will now remember the last position of a borderless panel separately when executed from *ScriptUI Panel / KBar* and when executed via a shortcut.

### Changed

#### System

* **IMPORTANT (Win only):** Due to AE now occupying *Shift+J* & *Shift+K*, the default shortcut for [Parent Layers to Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/parent-group-layers#parent-layers-to-group) has been changed to *Ctrl+Alt+3* & for [Set Parent Exception Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/parent-group-layers#set-parent-exception-layer) to *Ctrl+Alt+Shift+3.*
* (Win only in AE 22 and below)**:** Due to [Activate / Deactivate Tag Group 2](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/tagging-layers#activate-deactivate-tag-group-1-2-3) now occupying *Alt+F5*, the default shortcut for [Unshy Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#unshy-layers) has been changed to *Alt+9.*
* Due to great usage, [Delete Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#delete-layer-clone-group) has been moved on the *Main Menu* to the spot of [Ungroup Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#ungroup-layers) so that you don't have to a press modifier key to access it. Now press *Shift* to access *Ungroup Layer/s* & *Ctrl/Cmd* to access [Dissolve Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#dissolve-group).
* [Relabel Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/relabeling#relabel-layer-s) has been moved on the *Main Menu* to the *Groups* category since it's mainly used for group relabeling.
* [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) has been moved on the *Main Menu* to the *Layer* category.
* [Delete Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#delete-layer-clone-group) has been moved on the shortcuts panel from the *Layers* to the *Groups* functions section since it's mainly used for groups.
* *Duplicate Group* has been renamed to [Duplicate Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group) to better reflect its functionality.
* System-related settings have been moved from the *Miscellaneous* settings tab to the new *System* tab.
* Logging is now enabled by default in order to make troubleshooting easier.
* Made online activation period more graceful.

#### Group & Layer Functions

* For improved visual clarity, sub-group headers will now **NOT** display the extra icon (Win: └ / Mac: >) left to the expanded/collapsed icon in *Indented Layout*.
* Automatic [trimming of regular track mattes to matted layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#automatic-trimming) is now **disabled** by default since it sometimes resulted in confusing automatic trims. (Re-enable it by going to the *Trimming Settings*.)
* The clone border expansion of [Clones in Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-in-comp) will now be set to 0% by default.
* The experimental option to combine track mattes on one layer when merging mattes has been removed due to low usage.

### Fixed

#### System

* Fixed a bug that would cause a *JSON.parse* error.
* Fixed error in alert to open After Effects preferences to allow scripts to access network.
* Fixed a bug that caused Workflower not to find AE's shortcut file if you only had a major AE version installed whose version number had three digits.

#### Group & Layer Functions

* Fixed a bug when using *Workflower's* [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) that would shift a precomposed layer's position if it were parented to a layer outside of the selection.
* Fixed a bug when using *Workflower's* [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) that would not set the created precomp to the correct length if *Leave all Attributes* was checked.
* Fixed a bug that would copy group-less layers in the wrong order to the clipboard after selecting all comp layers using [Select Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#select-group) without any layer selected.
* Fixed a bug when using [Delete Layer / Clone / Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#delete-layer-clone-group) that would cause layers to shift position if they were parented to deleted layer.
* Fixed a bug that would throw an error while refreshing [Group Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) when a [Matte Merge](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes) layer was the first layer within the comp.
* Fixed a bug within [Store Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#store-layers) that prevented a group from being copied into a *Store Comp* when only the group header was selected.
* Fixed issues that occurred when you executed *Workflower* on a comp with existing non-*Workflower* layer comments which could have caused *Workflower* to malfunction. Now, all existing layer comments will be deleted by *Workflower* beforehand.
* Fixed a bug that would cause AE to crash if illegal group header/footer constellations existed. *Workflower* will now exit the execution to prevent the crash and give instructions on how to fix the comp structure.
* Fixed a bug that would falsely remove the *Group || Settings* effect when converting[ all comps to another layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#convert-all-comps-to-another-layout) and enabling *Remove all Layer/Comp Comments*.
* Fixed a bug that would falsely add a *Group Opacity* slider to a disabled track matte within a disabled group.

## 1.1.4 - May 26, 2022 <a href="#id-1-1-4" id="id-1-1-4"></a>

### Added

* If you separate position dimensions by default (introduced in AE 22.4), group headers as well as other *Workflower* layers will now separate dimensions too.
* When you use [Store Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#store-layers) and [Paste Stored Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#paste-stored-layers), layer references in effects will now be retained.

### Changed

* When [merging mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes), a matte layer with separated dimensions but otherwise unchanged transforms will now be added to the *Matte Merge* directly and not be cloned.
* When [centering a group header](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/miscellaneous-group-functions#center-group-header), disabled layers as well as [Parent Exception Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/parent-group-layers#set-parent-exception-layer) will now be ignored while averaging the position.

### Fixed

* Fixed a bug that prevented the check within [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) whether [Group Adjustment Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers) need to be refreshed to work in certain circumstances.
* Fixed a bug that would prevent entire groups to be pasted using [Paste Stored Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#paste-stored-layers).
* Fixed a bug that would falsely parent a [Clone in Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-in-comp), created from a layer with *Collapse Transformation*, within a parented group.
* Fixed a bug that would not [precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) a layer while leaving all attributes in the comp when the layer contained a *sampleImage()* expression.

## 1.1.3 - May 15, 2022 <a href="#id-1-1-3" id="id-1-1-3"></a>

### Added

* Ability to [install a KBar toolbar](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#batch-create-all-buttons) that replicates the entire [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu) of *Workflower*. To install it, go to *Settings > Layout > Install WF KBar Toolbar*.

### Changed

* When opening *Workflower* for the first time, the user will now be asked whether they want to label layers outside groups to *None*.

### Fixed

* Fixed a bug on Mac or when using [Individual Scripts Mode](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#individual-scripts-mode-windows-+-mac) on Windows that would not set the shortcut slots to the correct value when entering the shortcuts panel for the first time.

## 1.1.2 - May 4, 2022 <a href="#id-1-1-2" id="id-1-1-2"></a>

### Added

* When you [Un-Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) layers, you can now choose to adjust transforms of the un-precomposed layers to the transforms of the precomp layer.

### Fixed

* Fixed a bug that removed all parents within a group when unparenting a group.

## 1.1.1 - April 17, 2022 <a href="#id-1-1-1" id="id-1-1-1"></a>

### Added

* When you create a [Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-linked-adjustment-layer) and one of your selected layers has currently selected effects, those effects will now be cut from the layer and pasted to the *Linked Adjustment Layer*.

### Fixed

* Fixed issues that occurred after updating to a new AE version. *Workflower* will now inform you correctly to go to the *Workflower* shortcuts panel to apply shortcuts for the new version.
* If you updated to v1.1 from an earlier version, the default of *Trim Matte Merges with only Group Matte FXs to Matted Layer* has been incorrectly set to *off*. This will now be set to *on*.
* If you have a duplicate file of *Workflower* within the *ScriptUI Panels* folder (either in the system or user folder), *Workflower* will now inform you to remove the file. (Otherwise, the script won't work.)

## 1.1 - April 1, 2022 <a href="#id-1-1" id="id-1-1"></a>

{% hint style="warning" %}
**ATTENTION:** Projects created in v1.1 or newer are not fully backwards-compatible!

You can open up older projects with v1.1 but when you're switching back to v1.0.6 or older and you try to open up a project created with v1.1 or newer, you will have to [downgrade your project](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#convert-project-to-older-wf-version) beforehand. To do this, go to *Settings > Layout > Convert Project to older WF Version*.
{% endhint %}

### Added

#### Speed Improvements

* Big speed improvement for [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout). Around 2-4 times faster!
* Improved the speed of [Solo Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/disable-solo-and-lock-groups#solo-group), [Enable / Disable Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/disable-solo-and-lock-groups#enable-disable-group), [Select Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#select-group) as well as for the [shortcuts panel](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#default-shortcuts) to come up.
* Improved performance of [Quick Refresh Clone Connections within Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#quick-refresh-clone-connections-of-selected-layers), especially when dealing with [Group Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#group-clone) that contain a lot of layers.

#### New Group Functions

* Ability to use [Group Opacity](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#group-opacity) and [Layers respect Group In/Out](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#layers-respect-group-in-out-point). Once you enable *Group Opacity*, *Workflower* will add an expression to the opacity of the layers and it will add a special opacity slider effect to all group layers as it does with [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone) layers. Execute [Reveal Layer Opacity](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/miscellaneous-layer-functions#reveal-layer-opacity) to reveal the slider in the timeline.
* Ability to [add masks to a group header](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#using-the-group-header-as-referenced-group-matte-layer). When you draw a mask on the group header and you execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections), a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) linked to the group header will be applied to all layers. However, it will only consider the masks, not the effects of the group header. (The border size of the group header will be set to comp size. You can change the size by going to the layer's *Contents > Border > Fill > Size*.) If you remove the mask/s from your group header, it will turn back to the default group header size.
* Ability to [add effects to a group header](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#applying-effects-to-the-group-header). When you apply effects to the group header and you execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections), a [Group Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers) will be created which will consider the effects of the group header in addition to its own effects.
* When you create a group with [Parent Layers to Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/parent-group-layers#parent-layers-to-group) enabled, the group header will now be set at the [average position of the contained layers' anchor points](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#group-header-at-average-position).
* New function: [Center Group Header](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/miscellaneous-group-functions#center-group-header). Moves the header to the average position of all group layers' anchor points. (That way you can center the group header at any point, even after having created the group.)
* On the [Create Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#create-group) dialog, you can now choose a group label color.
* Ability to create an empty group. With no layer selected, execute *Create Group*.

#### Automatic Trimming

* [Automatic trimming](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#automatic-trimming) of the in and out point of the group header to its contained layers (off when using [Layers respect Group In/Out](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#layers-respect-group-in-out-point)), as well as automatic adjustment of [Group Linked Adjustment Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers) and [Group Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) to their group header. Also of track mattes to their matted layer, of [Precomp Clones](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) to their contained layers, and of [Matted Adjustment Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-matted-adjustment-layer) to their matted clone.
* Ability to exempt layers from getting trimmed. Simply add a marker to the layer with the comment "TTT" (without quotation marks), or use the new function: [Exempt Layer from Trimming](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#exempt-layer-from-trimming), which is only available via the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): *Alt/Option+Click* on the [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s) button.

#### Matting

* Ability to [shy *Matte Merge* layers that only contain *Group Matte* effects (*Shy Mattes*)](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#shy-mattes). Select any of the group layers and execute [Select Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#select-group) to select the corresponding *Shy Mattes* too. If enabled (under *Settings > Matting*), all shy'd layers will then be unshy'd temporarily. Now move your layers and the next time you execute [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout), all *Shy Mattes* will be shy'd again.
* New function: [Unshy Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#unshy-layers). Only available via shortcut (Win: Alt+F5, Mac: no default shortcut). Temporarily unshy's all [Shy Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#shy-mattes) until the next time you execute [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout). Useful when you, for example, want to move a layer without existing [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) into a group with Group *Matte* and you want to be able to easily place the layer at the correct position.

#### Precomposing

* New function: [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose). A replacement for AE's *Pre-compose* with additional options. Using this function, you can convert a group to a precomp and vice versa too. When doing this, you can also convert transforms, [Group Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte), and [Group Linked Adjustment Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers) so that the precomp layer/group will inherit these attributes.

#### Connections

* When you add/remove a layer to/from a group, [Group Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) and group effects will now be added/removed when executing [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) without the need for executing [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) afterward anymore. (You can also deactivate this behavior under *Settings > Matting* or *Settings > Adjustment La*yers since it might slow [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) down when dealing with a lot of layers.)
* When you're unlinking a [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) or [Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-linked-adjustment-layer) where source properties have expressions applied to them, you can now automatically convert all expressions to keyframes on the cloned/linked layer to improve performance. (You need to enable this feature under the *Cloning* or *Adjustment Layer* *Settings*.)

#### Duplicate Group (& Layers)

* An advanced way to [duplicate groups and layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/create-and-duplicate-groups#duplicate-group). For example, all effects that reference other selected layers will be updated to their duplicates, as well as a more straightforward naming of the duplicates and an automated way of updating [Group Mattes](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) and [Group Adjustment Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers) to the duplicated group.
* If you don't have a group header selected, *Duplicate Group* will now duplicate only the selected layers (not the group) with the advanced features mentioned above.
* When duplicating a group, the duplicated group will now get a new label color.

#### Layout & Naming

* New function: [Exempt Layer Name from Alteration](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#exempt-layer-name-from-alteration). Only available via the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu): *Ctrl/Cmd+Click* on the [Rename Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s) button. Useful when you want to batch-exempt several layer names from alteration at once.
* Option to use a [custom indentation icon in Expression Mode](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#custom-indentation-icon-in-expression-mode). Go to the *Icon Settings* to enable it. Useful when working a lot in *Expression Mode* and you want to have an indication of the layers' indentation level.
* Ability to define custom default names of *Group Clones*, *Group Linked Adjustment Layers*, and *Group Mattes*. Go to *Settings > Naming* to define them.
* When you [batch convert all comps to another layout style](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#convert-all-comps-to-another-layout), you can now also choose to save the converted project as a copy.

#### Miscellaneous

* New function: [Expand / Collapse all Sub-Groups](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#expand-collapse-all-sub-groups).
* You can now create [Clones in Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-in-comp) from shape and text layers as well as from comps that have collapse transformation enabled, too.
* When you're creating a group with a lot of layers, or you're [toggling between layout styles](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#toggle-non-indented-layout) in a larger comp (40+ layers), a progress bar will now indicate how long it will take until the action is complete.
* Ability to create a [KBar button](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#kbar) to directly label the selected group/layer with a specific color. Simply pass the label ID as an argument in the function, e.g. to label with the 3rd color, write: relabelLayers(3)

#### System & Shortcuts

* On *Workflower's* shortcuts panel, you can now reset a single function to its default shortcut by *Shift+Clicking* on *Edit*.
* Option to simulate an enter press to skip the AE panel after applying *Workflower* shortcuts. (You need to enable this by going to *Settings > Miscellaneous*.)
* On Windows, you now have the option to select a different method of how *Workflower* determines the current mouse position. Go to *Settings > Miscellaneous* and set Mouse *Position Calculation* to *External File (Advanced)*. (This has been added because some people experienced issues with dialogs not coming up which happens due to the fact that the mouse position calculation fails.)
* Ability to log *Workflower* activity. To enable it, go to *Settings > License & Help > Enable Logging* or create a file named "wf\_enable\_log.txt" (without quotation marks) in your *Documents* user folder if you cannot access the settings dialog. In case you encounter issues and you contact customer support, you might want to include your latest logfile (to be found under *\~Documents/Adobe/Workflower/Logging*).
* Ability to disable the update check from outside of the script. Useful since there are rare instances when the update check prevents the script from being opened. In these cases, please add a file named "wf\_disable\_update\_check.txt" (without quotation marks) in your 'Documents' user folder and start the script again.
* Updated to AEScripts licensing framework v4.0.3.

### Changed

#### Group Functions

* When you release a layer from a parented group and you execute [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout), the parent will now be removed from the layer.
* Now you can have any group layer selected to execute [Select Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/collapse-and-select-groups#select-group). This does not apply when you have a group layer and a group header that is contained in the same group selected. The other exception is when the selected layer has a [Shy Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#shy-mattes) above. (In that case, only the *Shy Matte* will be selected).
* When you execute [Ungroup Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#ungroup-layers) while a group header at the highest level is selected, the group will now be moved after the next group at the highest level (instead of dissolving the group).
* You can now delete a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) layer and then execute [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout) and all [Matte Merge](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes) layers with *Group Matte* effects will be removed. (Before, the only option was to select the group header and execute *Create Matte* to remove the layers.)
* When you duplicate a group, only the duplicated group header will now be selected (instead of the whole group).

#### Groups in 3D Space

* When a group header is 3D, the shy'd layer above the group which exists to display potential group error messages will now be disabled. That way, 3D space is retained and layers across different groups can intersect. Potential group error messages will still be displayed but only the shy'd layer above the topmost 2D group header will be used for that.
* When you create a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) or [Group Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers) on a group header that is 3D, they will be turned into 3D as well by default so that 3D space is retained beyond the *Group Matte* and *Adjustment Layer*.

#### Precomp Clones

* When you execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) on a duplicated [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp) layer, now the duplicated *Precomp Clone* layer (or more precisely: the selected layer) will get a fresh clone comp while the non-selected *Precomp Clone* keeps the existing clone comp.
* When you move a [Group Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#group-clone) out of its group and you execute [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) on it, it will now be turned into a regular [Precomp Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-and-precomp).

#### Matte Merging

* The blending mode of mattes added to a [Matte Merge](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes) will now be set to *Stencil Alpha* (instead of *Normal*) by default.
* If you add a layer that is already within a [Matte Collection Group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#matte-collection-groups) to a [Matte Merge](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes), the layer will now be turned into an [Invisible Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#invisible-mattes).

#### System & Shortcuts

* When you open a project that was created with an earlier version or on another OS, you will now be informed and you can choose to update all comps in the project to the current version/OS.
* On Mac or when using [Individual Scripts Mode](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#individual-scripts-mode-windows-+-mac) on Windows, when you have a reduced number of shortcuts and you click *Reset to Default* on *Workflower's* shortcuts panel, shortcuts will now be applied by priority (not by index).
* On Mac or when using [Individual Scripts Mode](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#individual-scripts-mode-windows-+-mac) on Windows, two new default shortcuts have been added: [Precompose](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/precomposing#precompose) (Win: Alt+F3, Mac: macControl+C) and [Ungroup Layer/s](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#ungroup-layers) (Win+Mac: Shift+H). To make room for those, [Clone in Comp](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#clone-in-comp) and [Store Layers 1](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers#store-layers) have been removed from the list of functions with default shortcuts.

### Fixed

#### Group & Layer Functions

* Fixed a bug that would move layers incorrectly when a group with a large number of sub-groups was created.
* Fixed a bug that would not unshy accidentally shy'd group headers when refreshing the layout.
* When you [dissolve a group](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/group-functions/ungroup-dissolve-and-delete-groups#dissolve-group) and it holds a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte), [Group Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers), and/or [Group Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#group-clone), those elements will now be removed.
* When executing [Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#refresh-connections) on a [Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-linked-adjustment-layer), no issues occur anymore when undoing and then trying to redo the action.
* Fixed a bug that occurred when a [Group Linked Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#group-linked-adjustment-layers) was created and the group contained camera and/or lights.
* Fixed a bug that would unlock previously locked layers when creating a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte).
* Fixed bug that would occur when you created a [Group Matte](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#group-matte) on a group with a [Group Matted Adjustment Layer](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-matted-adjustment-layer).
* Fixed bug that would not refresh *Layer Styles* when using [Quick Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#quick-refresh-connections-experimental).
* Fixed bug that would not update visibility states on shape and text layers when using [Quick Refresh Connections](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/connections#quick-refresh-connections-experimental).

#### System

* On Windows, when you use multiple monitors with different DPI scalings, panels that appear at mouse position, now come up at the correct position. (For this to work properly, you need to disable *Warn User when Executing Files* in AE's *Scripting & Expressions* preferences because *Workflower* has to execute a file at startup to check the different monitor scalings.)
* Fixed *ExtComms* error handling.

## 1.0.6 - February 19, 2022 <a href="#id-1-0-6" id="id-1-0-6"></a>

### Added

* Updated licensing framework.
* On Mac, when pressing a modifier key on the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu), new icons for the additional functions will now be revealed. (Unfortunately, this will only happen once you move the mouse.)
* Slightly improved the speed of [Refresh Layout](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#refresh-layout). (In the upcoming v1.1, the speed of *Refresh Layout* will be improved by at least 4x.)

### Fixed

* Fixed issues when the user folder and/or AE shortcut file couldn't be found. Sometimes, this could have prevented the user from opening the script and/or reduced performance when executing functions.
* Fixed issues that occurred when shortcuts with a combination of *Shift+Alt/Option+Key* were applied.
* Greatly reduced the number of times you could get the *No corresponding Function found* error message.
* On Windows, when you use a scaled monitor resolution, panels that appear at mouse position, now come up at the correct position. (Unfortunately, *Workflower* will only take the scaling of the primary monitor into account. This will be fixed in the upcoming v1.1.)
* Fixed a bug on Mac that would cause panels that are supposed to appear at mouse position not to come up when multiple monitors with custom scalings were used.
* If dialogs that are supposed to appear at mouse position do not come up because the calculation of the mouse position fails, *Workflower* will now inform the user to restart AE, and if it doesn't help, to change the *Position of Borderless Dialogs* to *At Last Position.*
* On Mac or when using [Individual Scripts Mode](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#individual-scripts-mode-windows-+-mac) on Windows, when no shortcut has been applied to the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu), the user will now be informed to add a shortcut. (Otherwise, the script won't work.)
* Fixed issues that caused the automatic update check to get disabled by accident.
* Fixed a bug when using [Individual Scripts Mode](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#individual-scripts-mode-windows-+-mac) on Windows that would prevent shortcut slots from being updated correctly if the shortcuts panel wasn't accessed via the [Main Menu](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/main-menu).

## 1.0.5 - October 23, 2021 <a href="#id-1-0-5" id="id-1-0-5"></a>

### Added

* Ability to [exempt the name of specific layers from being altered](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#exempt-layer-names). Useful when working with scripts/plugins that depend on specific layer names. Simply add a marker to the layer with the comment *NNN*.

### Changed

* When you create a group that contains 3D layers and that is supposed to parent the layers, the group header will now automatically be turned into 3D.
* [Store Comps](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/storing-layers) now don't depend anymore on staying within the *Stored Layers* folder in the project panel. Useful when working with a tool like [Declutter](https://aescripts.com/declutter/) that will overwrite the current folder structure.

### Fixed

* On Mac, when *Indent Layers Outside Groups to Fit AE Icons* is deactivated, no space will now be added in front of group-less layer names.
* [Linked Adjustment Layers](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/adjustment-layers#create-linked-adjustment-layer) now resize if the comp size has been changed.
* Fixed a bug that would occur if layers of a [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone) were shown and a layer was renamed using *Workflower's* [renaming tool](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layer-s). (The expression on the opacity of the [Prime Clone](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/cloning#prime-clone) used to then contain *undefined*.)

## 1.0.4 - September 10, 2021 <a href="#id-1-0-4" id="id-1-0-4"></a>

### Added

* Support for *KBar* buttons. Check out the user guide on [Installation](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/installation#kbar) for more.
* Ability to add a shortcut for [Rename Layers by Number](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/renaming#rename-layers-by-number).

### Changed

* [Matte Merge](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/layer-functions/matting#merge-mattes) layers now resize automatically if the comp size has been changed.
* A more robust updating process for shortcut slots on Mac and [Individual Scripts Mode](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/shortcuts#individual-scripts-mode-windows-mac) on Windows. There's no need anymore to go to the shortcuts panel yourself. Also, if the update wasn't successful, *Workflower* will keep reminding you to update.

### Fixed

* Under certain conditions, some Japanese users experienced problems with opening the script. Now, alerts with more meaningful messages have been put in to guide the installation.
* The user will now be informed if the script file was accidentally put into the *ScriptUI Panels* folder.

## 1.0.3 - August 26, 2021

### Added

* Ability to [batch convert all comps to another layout style](https://workflower.constantin-maier.com/main-functions/layout#convert-all-comps-to-another-layout). Very useful when exchanging the project with someone who doesn't own *Workflower*. (For example, you might want to convert all of your comps to *Expression Mode* then.) Go to Workflower's settings and click on *Convert all Comps in Project to another Layout Style*.

### Fixed

* As there are issues with *Workflower's* shortcuts on Windows when the OS language is Japanese, the user will now be informed about the problem and how to set up everything correctly.
* Fixed a bug that would occur when actions are executed for multiple comps at once (like linking/unlinking elements across all comps in the project).

## 1.0.2 - August 20, 2021

**VERSION WITH CRITICAL BUG FIXES. PLEASE UPDATE!**

### Added

* Support for *Supercomp* layers in *Indented Layout*. Now, the *Supercomp* layer will not be indented so that it doesn't break the *Supercomp*.
* Speed for the *Relabel* panel to come up has been improved. Also for the execution of *Create Matte*, *Delete Layer / Clone / Group* and *Paste Stored Layers*.

### Fixed

* Fixed issues that could lead AE to crash/freeze.

## 1.0.1 - August 18, 2021

### Added

* *Precomp Clones* now support text style expressions on the *Source Text* property.

### Changed

* Within a *Precomp Clone*, when a text layer has different text styles, no linked expression will now be created, as an expression on this property will set a uniform text style. (Please execute *Refresh Connections* to refresh potential changes.)

### Fixed

* As some users were not able to open the script when AE's shortcut file contains special characters, the user will now be alerted to change the shortcut file name to only contain regular English characters. (Fixing the underlying issue might take a bit as this seems to be a bug within AE.)
* The user will now be alerted when, under certain circumstances, AE's shortcut folder cannot be found. (The user will have to manually select the shortcut file then.)
* Fixed a bug that occurred when the shape content of a group header was deleted.

## 1.0 - August 13, 2021

* Initial release