The WordPress Core Team has released the agenda for its upcoming Developer Chat, scheduled for Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 15:00 UTC. Hosted in the #core channel on Make WordPress Slack, this meeting will spotlight critical updates and discussions shaping the future of WordPress development.
Key Takeaways
- The April 1, 2026, Developer Chat will cover WordPress 7.0 progress, including the AI Client and Connectors API.
- Contributors are invited to volunteer for the 2027 default theme project.
- Open floor discussions will address ticket requests for upcoming releases and broader initiatives like navigation rethinking.
- WordCamp Asia 2026 Contributor Day will push testing for WordPress 7.0 features.
Announcements and Agenda Highlights
The Developer Chat agenda reveals a packed list of topics, starting with announcements related to Gutenberg 22.8 (released March 25, 2026), a retrospective on WordPress 6.9.2, and updates on WordCamp Asia 2026. Of particular interest is the call for volunteers for the 2027 default theme, signaling early preparations for next year’s design focus.
WordPress 7.0 development continues to dominate the agenda with updates on its extended release cycle and new features like the AI Client, Client-Side Abilities API, and Connectors API. These groundbreaking additions aim to enhance automation, extend functionality for third-party integrations, and simplify workflows for developers.
Discussions and Open Floor Topics
The discussion section invites contributors to propose topics relevant to upcoming releases or broader initiatives. Core Team members can nominate subjects by commenting on the agenda post, providing summaries, links for context, and specific feedback needs. One notable item from @matt is the proposal to rethink WordPress’s left navigation interface, which could introduce significant usability changes.
The open floor segment provides a forum for raising ticket assistance requests and discussing issues affecting the next major or maintenance release. Contributors are encouraged to include ticket details, pull request links, and availability during the meeting to facilitate real-time collaboration.
Key Contributor Updates
As WordPress 7.0 development progresses, contributors continue to drive innovation across the ecosystem. WordCamp Asia 2026, set to begin next week in Mumbai, will include testing efforts for the delayed WordPress 7.0 release during its Contributor Day. This shift underscores the priority placed on ensuring stability before launch.
Meanwhile, the Themes Team reports impressive activity with 918 tickets opened and 930 tickets closed in the past week, resulting in 891 themes going live. The Create Block Theme plugin, now boasting 20,000+ active installs, further highlights the growing demand for block-based solutions in WordPress development.
What This Means for WordPress Users
For developers, the April 1 Dev Chat is a prime opportunity to engage with WordPress 7.0’s transformative features and contribute to its evolution. Participants should prepare for discussions on APIs like the AI Client and Connectors, which will likely redefine how plugins and themes integrate with WordPress.
Agencies and site owners should pay attention to the extended timeline for WordPress 7.0. While delays may seem inconvenient, they reflect the Core Team’s commitment to delivering a polished product. Additionally, the call for volunteers for the 2027 default theme offers a chance to shape WordPress’s visual identity early.
The open floor session is particularly crucial for contributors with pending tickets or pull requests. Engaging in real-time discussions can accelerate resolutions and ensure readiness for upcoming releases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I join the April 1 Developer Chat?
You can join the chat by logging into the #core channel on Make WordPress Slack at 15:00 UTC. Ensure you have a Slack account and are registered with the WordPress community workspace.
What topics will be discussed during the meeting?
The agenda includes updates on WordPress 7.0, Gutenberg 22.8, and the 2027 default theme call for volunteers. Open floor discussions will cover ticket assistance and broader initiatives.
Can I propose a topic for discussion?
Yes, you can propose a topic by leaving a comment on the agenda post with a summary, relevant context, and feedback needs. Be prepared to discuss your topic during the meeting.
Why was WordPress 7.0 delayed?
The release was delayed to ensure stability and thorough testing. Contributor Day at WordCamp Asia 2026 will focus on testing its features before launch.
