Metadata editor classic is retiring in 2025 in both ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise, and the new, unified, metadata editor will be the go-to for populating and updating metadata in ArcGIS. We are excited to be moving forward, and wanted to share timelines, next steps, and resources with you.
Retirement timeline
Metadata editor classic is expected to be retired in 2025.
- ArcGIS Online – Metadata editor classic is planned to be retired and will no longer be available with the first ArcGIS Online release in 2025.
- ArcGIS Enterprise – Metadata editor classic is planned to be retired and will no longer be available with the ArcGIS Enterprise 12.0 release in 2025.
- ArcGIS Pro – ArcGIS Pro will continue to support both the classic and new metadata editors for the foreseeable future.
For ArcGIS Pro, Online, and Enterprise, metadata previously saved using metadata editor classic will automatically be opened and saved when using the metadata editor.
What about my existing metadata?
Existing metadata saved using metadata editor classic will seamlessly transition to the “new” metadata editor. Therefore, you can continue to create and manage standards-based metadata using the new and improved metadata editor.
Next steps
For a smooth transition, it is encouraged to adjust your organization’s workflows to use the new metadata editor in preparation for the retirement of metadata editor classic. Proactive evaluation and adoption of the metadata editor is recommended to test your workflows. If you encounter concerns or obstacles during this process, please share your feedback on the Metadata, Catalogs and Search Esri Community, or reach out to Esri Support for assistance. This feedback will help in addressing issues effectively and connecting you with relevant supporting materials or teams.
Looking ahead
Historically, metadata editing in ArcGIS varied across products. The metadata editor was developed to reduce the complexity and unify the metadata editing experience across ArcGIS. This editor is now available across all foundational ArcGIS products—ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and ArcGIS Enterprise. The primary goal is to make metadata creation and maintenance faster and easier, enabling users to manage metadata more efficiently and consistently. Through these advancements, we look forward to a more efficient, collaborative, and innovative approach to metadata management across ArcGIS.
Resources
- Introducing Metadata Editor Beta
- The New Metadata Editor is Out of Beta
- Metadata Editor is now available in ArcGIS Pro 3.5
- Edit metadata (ArcGIS Online)
- View and edit metadata (ArcGIS Enterprise)
- Edit metadata (ArcGIS Pro)
Connect with us
Please reach out to us on Esri Community if you have questions, concerns, and/or clarifications about the retirement or the transition to the new, unified, metadata editor.
The progression to the unified metadata editor reflects Esri’s commitment to providing and improving tools for effective metadata management. Embracing this change will ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and capabilities within the ArcGIS platform.
This blog was updated on October 20, 2025.
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