Install multiple versions of affinity software in parallel?

[Michail]

I have noticed that affinity software is not upward compatible. For example, you can no longer open an AD1.7 file in an AD1.6 version. Is that intentional?

If so: Can I install multiple versions of affinity software in parallel - for example, 1.6 and 1.7 side by side?

[Patrick Connor]

Before I install an update I copy the installation folder and rename the copy (Designer 1.6.5 or Designer 1.6.1 for example) with the exception of saved objects like symbols panel, the 1.6.5 build can be run on the same machine as 1.7.0 or whatever is the current. It helps to make carefully named shortcuts to run the right one, but it's possible. Most difficult is the lack of backwards compatibility so although you can run the application, files are normally tied to the latest major version that you have saved them in.

[Michail]

5 minutes ago, Patrick Connor said:

Before I install an update I copy the installation folder and rename the copy (Designer 1.6.5 or Designer 1.6.1 for example) with the exception of saved objects like symbols panel, the 1.6.5 build can be run on the same machine as 1.7.0 or whatever is the current. It helps to make carefully named shortcuts to run the right one, but it's possible. Most difficult is the lack of backwards compatibility so although you can run the application, files are normally tied to the latest major version that you have saved them in.

Thanks for the explanation!

But then there should be exchange formats. In other graphic applications I know the possibility to save a file in a lower version within the higher version.
And concerning AD: Can the SVG format be used as an exchange format? After all, layers can be saved with it.