This error message, “File was created with a newer version”, is pretty common if you’re trying to open a project created in a newer After Effects version with an older one. The thing is, After Effects doesn’t really support backward compatibility out of the box, so it can’t automatically convert newer project files to work with previous versions. Basically, each subsequent update adds new features, effects, and structure tweaks, which can break things when you try to open them in older versions.
On some setups, this error pops up immediately, but on others, it might take a restart or even a reinstallation of the app to clear up. Not sure why, but it’s one of those quirks with Adobe software—seems like it’s always pushing you to stay updated. If you’re stuck and can’t upgrade immediately or need to work across different versions, here are two main routes: upgrade your software or save the project in an older format. Both help you open your project without losing too much of the work, but they require different steps.
How to Fix the “File was created with a newer version” Error in After Effects
Method 1: Upgrade to the Latest Adobe After Effects
This is the best move if you want to keep all the project features and effects intact. The reason it works is straightforward: newer versions are backward-compatible as long as you’ve upgraded the software. On Windows, you’ll need to use the Adobe Creative Cloud app to get the latest version. Because of course, Adobe has to make it a tad harder than necessary—sometimes you think you’re up-to-date, but the software’s lying in wait for your project to throw this error.
Here’s what to do:
- Press the Windows key and type “Adobe Creative Cloud”—if it’s not installed, grab it from the Adobe website.
- Sign in with your Adobe ID—that’s your subscription login.
- Open the Creative Cloud desktop app, then look for After Effects.
- Click on Update or Install if a newer version is available. Sometimes it shows as “Update to 23.x” or whatever version is current.
- Let it download and install—can take a few minutes depending on your internet speed.
- Once done, launch After Effects, and try opening your project again.
If this doesn’t work immediately, try restarting your computer. Sometimes the update isn’t fully recognized until a reboot, especially on older setups. Definitely worth doing before spinning your wheels further.
Method 2: Save the Project as an Older Version (from a newer After Effects)
Not every single person can upgrade right away, especially if they are working with company systems or older hardware. So, if you have access to the newer version of After Effects, you can just save the project in a format that’s compatible with older versions. It’s a bit of a workaround, but it works surprisingly well most of the time, especially if your project isn’t overly complex.
Here’s the process:
- Open the project in the newer After Effects version.
- Import any necessary assets or presets you want to preserve in the older version. Just drag and drop or use File > Import.
- Go to File > Save As.
- Select Save a Copy As. When the save dialog pops up, look for an option like Save as a Previous Version—for example, “Save a Copy As 22.x” or similar. The exact label depends on your version, but it should note the target older version.
- Save this copy to your desired location.
- Now, open that saved file in your older After Effects version. It should open without the compatibility error now.
Keep in mind, some newer features or effects might not translate perfectly back to older versions, so be prepared for some adjustments. Also, remember to back up your original project before attempting any conversions—just in case.
Generally, this workaround is a lifesaver when collaborative workflows involve different software versions or hardware limitations. Once you get used to exporting early, it’s pretty seamless.