WordPress 4.0: A Slight Evolution or a Major Leap Forward?
The release of WordPress 4.0 has arrived, and while it’s a major update, some may argue that it doesn’t bring about groundbreaking changes like WordPress 3.0 did. In this article, we’ll delve into the new features introduced in 4.0 and the community’s response to it.
Key Enhancements in WordPress 4.0
1. Improved Media Library
The media library has undergone significant improvements. Instead of a cluttered list of media attachments, you now get a sleek grid view for all your uploads:
You can now select multiple images by checking the checkboxes in the top-right corner of each attachment – a much-needed improvement that could still see some refinement.
Single attachment pages have also been updated, with detAIls displayed in a Modal window rather than a separate page, providing a cleaner look.
2. enhanced Plugin Installation
The introduction of plugin installation through the dashboard in WordPress 2.7 was a game-changer. However, the “Add New Plugin” screen remained unchanged until 4.0. Now, when browsing or searching for plugins, you’re presented with plugin cards:
AdDiTionally, the modal window for plugin details has a fresh design, thanks to plugin title images, making it visually more appealing.
3. Visual Editor Improvements
For those who love writing lengthy posts, the visual editor has become even more user-friendly! The TinyMCE editor now expands as you type:
Moreover, the toolbar docks and moves with you as you scroll down the page, ensuring continuous access to editing tools.
4. New Language Selection Options
When installing WordPress 4.0, you’ll encounter a new language selection page. This allows you to choose your preferred language without visiting WordPress.org’s localization subsite:
Furthermore, you can change the site’s language from the “General” settings under “Options.”
5. Customizer Enhancements
WordPress 4.0 also brings improvements to the Customizer, now simply called “Customizer.” The first enhancement involves widgets loading in subpanels within the Customizer:
The second update relates to the Customizer API, which introduces new functionalities. For more details on these changes, refer to the Make WordPress Core blog post on “Customizer Improvements in 4.0.”
Community ReActions to WordPress 4.0
While many enthusiasts eagerly anticipate each new WordPress version, some in the community were underwhelmed by 4.0, considering it less revolutionary compared to 3.0. Raelene Wilson, in her WPMU DEV article, expressed disappointment. Kevin Muldoon of EleGANt Themes echoed similar sentiments, and Brenda Barron of ManageWP wrote about developers’ expectations.
However, this new release can be seen as an evolution in WordPress’ user experience (UX). As a UX enthusiast, these enhancements are appreciated, even if they might seem less dramatic than the changes brought by WordPress 3.0.
In Sarah Gooding’s summary on WP Tavern, notable updates include:
– Previewing embedded URLs within the visual editor and media modal.
– Grid view addition to the media library, alongside the list view.
– Enhanced plugin installation and search experience.
– Improved language selection during installation.
– The editor’s ability to adjust column pins as needed.
– Enhanced keyboard and cursor interactions with TinyMCE views.
– Better formatting for widgets in the Customizer.
As discussed, these improvements, though not all equally exciting, collectively contribute to a substantial upgrade. Share your thoughts on WordPress 4.0 after you’ve had a chance to use it, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends!
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