I have 5 instances of the same symbol. The symbol is containing a Product Photo and Product Name. When I select all instances and use Insert → Data → Linked Data → JSON Data, everything works as expected. The image and text layers are updated correctly based on the data in my .json file.
However, when I select those 5 instances and place them inside a frame, graphic frame, or a simple group, the data insertion only works on the first instance within the container. If you reorder the instances inside the frame, only the newly positioned “first symbol instance” receives the data update instead.
We’ve fixed some issues related to Data in 2025.2, now in Beta, so I’ve been testing your issue following your steps, and I have to admit that I haven’t been able to reproduce it in any capacity in either the Beta or Final versions. See a video I just recorded following your steps in 2025.1.4:
Just to clarify, since that doesn’t appear in the video: I’ve tried to insert the data both at random and in order, same result. I’ve also edited the JSON and added and removed entries to ensure it is not a quantity issue.
There’s one detail that caught my eye in your description, though. You’re mentioning the Insert menu, but you should use the Layer menu instead: Layer → Data → Linked Data → JSON Data. Am I assuming right that’s where you are going in the first place?
In any case, please review the video and let me know if I’m following the steps incorrectly so I can reproduce the issue. Perhaps I’m missing something. If you could send a sample sketch, local file, and JSON, it could also help determine if there’s anything else interfering here.
EDIT: I am attaching the Sketch file, JSON and images I’ve added here, so you can test it on your side if you want. I’m using this GDrive link since Discourse doesn’t allow uploading JSONs or ZIP files (I’ll delete the link eventually though, but no worries, I won’t be super quick )
Hi, I’ve reproduced the issue with your provided document. Many thanks; it helped me clarify what is happening here.
I have been looking deeply into the root of the issue, and turns out, this is not related to Stacks at all. I can tell that the problem seems to be with feeding data to symbol instances from JSON files when there’s repeated elements that can be changed with data. The issue seems to be in the feature itself.
I am so sorry about this. I have filed the issue, and we’ll look into it. In the meantime, I’m afraid you’ll have to avoid using the feature for the moment, sorry
)
. Just drop a line if this can be fixed in coming update or the next one.