We need to be able to make new configured instances of an app for clients.

Currently this is a very manual process.  I want to be able to automate the creation and configuration of these apps for clients. Ideally the API can be used. 

But I can find any "New Application from a .ds file" command via the api.

And the  https://www.zoho.com/creator/help/api/rest-api/rest-api-copy-application.html method is marked as deprecated. 

1. Is there any api method available to make a new application from a .ds file?
2. What does "deprecated" mean in this context? How long will the "copyapp" method be supported? 
3. What will replace it and will the transition be seamless?

Thank you,

Don