WordPress professionals, buckle up — the ecosystem is buzzing with activity, from a record-breaking surge in plugin submissions to the delayed release of WordPress 7.0 and the debut of a groundbreaking tool that runs WordPress entirely in your browser storage. Each development impacts how agencies, freelancers, and developers approach their workflows, client deliverables, and product strategies.
Key Takeaways
- WordPress 7.0’s release candidate has been delayed, pushing back its scheduled launch to March 24th.
- My.WordPress.net introduces a zero-setup WordPress environment that operates entirely in browser storage.
- Plugin submissions have quadrupled since 2024, leaving the review team overwhelmed and actively recruiting.
- Nick Hamze’s “Featured Plugins” experiment boosted installs by 622%, proving the potential of curated discovery.
WordPress 7.0: Why the Delay?
The eagerly anticipated WordPress 7.0 release candidate was originally planned for March 19th but has been rescheduled to March 24th. While the final release date remains set for April 9th, the delay underscores the complexity of introducing major new features. Contributors cited issues with real-time collaboration and client-side media processing — both initially planned for 7.0 — as key reasons for the postponement. These features are now slated for WordPress 7.1 instead.
Another notable concern is the bloated file size of WordPress 7.0, which sits at 60MB uncompressed, more than double the size of WordPress 6.9.4. Optimization efforts are underway to reduce this footprint before the final release. Developers eager to test the latest updates can download Beta 5 while waiting for the release candidate.
My.WordPress.net: Local WordPress in Your Browser
Brandon Payton’s My.WordPress.net is redefining accessibility by offering a WordPress instance that lives entirely in browser storage. Unlike traditional setups, this environment requires no hosting, email, or password. Users can install plugins, switch themes, and customize without risk, making it ideal for private projects, drafting, or experimentation. However, one critical caution: clearing browser cookies could wipe your site unless you’ve backed it up.
The concept has stirred excitement within the community. Matt Mullenweg envisions a future where every individual receives a domain and WordPress site alongside their phone number. Others, like Sarah Perez, highlight its potential as a personal knowledge base powered by AI. For developers curious about its persistence compared to WordPress Playground, My.WordPress.net offers a more permanent local experience.
Plugin Submissions Skyrocket
The WordPress plugin ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth. Since October 2025, submission records have been shattered weekly, with new plugin entries quadrupling compared to 2024. The Plugin Review Team, tasked with maintaining quality standards, is feeling the strain and actively recruiting volunteers. Interested developers can undergo a two-month training period before joining the effort to manage the surging queue.
Quality remains a top priority amidst the volume increase. While variety is beneficial, the emphasis must remain on robust functionality and adherence to WordPress guidelines. Nick Hamze’s “Featured Plugins” experiment, which led to a 622% increase in installs for selected plugins, is a promising model for bringing high-quality plugins to broader audiences.
What This Means for WordPress Users
The delayed release of WordPress 7.0 highlights the growing technical complexity of major updates. Developers should plan accordingly, especially if client projects depend on features like real-time collaboration or media processing. Testing Beta 5 can help identify compatibility issues early.
My.WordPress.net offers intriguing possibilities for agencies and freelancers. It’s perfect for prototyping, experimentation, or private content management without setup overhead. Consider its use in training environments or as a sandbox for non-technical clients.
The plugin submission surge signals both opportunity and caution. Agencies and site operators should remain vigilant about plugin quality, as the increased volume may heighten risks of compatibility issues or security flaws. Volunteers stepping into the review team role can help shape the ecosystem’s future quality standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will WordPress 7.0 be officially released?
The final release date remains unchanged at April 9th, 2026. The release candidate is expected on March 24th.
How does My.WordPress.net differ from WordPress Playground?
Unlike Playground, My.WordPress.net persists by default within browser storage and doesn’t require hosting or a cloud-based setup.
How can I volunteer for the Plugin Review Team?
Visit the Make WordPress blog and fill out the volunteer form. Training lasts two months before you can start reviewing plugins.
