The “Object properties” language theme has been reworked a lot in 4D v12: Commands have been renamed, and new commands and functionalities have been added.

Every major version of 4D usually includes some changed command names – It’s kind of a tradition. It can be surprising, though, to discover that a command we used often doesn't work anymore. But at the end, we learn to adjust quickly. (Well, I must admit that I had hard time when INSERT ELEMENT became INSERT IN ARRAY in 4D v11 SQL). 4D v12 maintains this tradition and pushes it as far as possible regarding the “Object properties” theme: All commands have been renamed! They now all start with the “OBJECT” prefix, which is a good idea, especially when you use type-ahead often. Now, all commands are grouped so it’s easier to find the right one:

Beyond this renaming, 4D v12 brings more consistency in the way object properties can be dynamically handled. Now, every GET has its SET counterpart:
 

If a GET command does not have its SET counterpart (or vice-versa), it is likely because it doesn't need one. Typically, OBJECT GET BEST SIZE can’t have an OBJECT SET BEST SIZE twin, because it returns values dependent the content of the object. It is a bit different for OBJECT SET COLOR which uses the good old 4D color palette: To get the color of an object, only the red/green/blue values accessor, OBJECT GET RGB COLORS, can be used.

The new OBJECT Get activation/SET ACTIVATION commands replace DISABLE BUTTON/ENABLE BUTTON, which are now officially deprecated. We, as 4D developers, are encouraged to replace the old commands with the new ones, as they are much more efficient. Not only is their scope limited to the current form, but the name is clearer. I always found it strange to call DISABLE BUTTON on a combo-box, which is obviously not a button!

Finally, longtime developers will find OBJECT Get title very interesting, as it can also return the title of a button (who just said “At last!”?)… Furthermore, it can also return the contents of static text (typically a field label or a prompt sentence). And going even further, the OBJECT SET TITLE command also works on static text! This made us say  – during various 4D v12 Devcons around the world – that we invented the concept of “Dynamic Static” text!  Here's how it works: