WordPress is transforming its meetups into hands-on workshops, marking 2026 as the ‘Year of the Meetup.’ Mary Hubbard’s push for active participation aims to turn passive attendance into engaging experiences.
Meetups have long served as the introduction to the WordPress community. Now, they’re evolving. Juan Hernando refers to them as the ‘primary front door’ to WordPress, suggesting a shift towards more interactive sessions. This evolution includes templates and resources for practical, issue-focused meetings, encouraging newcomers to engage directly with WordPress tools and workflows.
This change aligns with Mary Hubbard’s vision for 2026. She emphasizes the importance of shared learning, especially as AI tools become increasingly prevalent. According to her, meetups are vital for experiencing how these tools integrate into WordPress, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Matt Mullenweg supports this initiative, dubbing 2026 the ‘Year of the Meetup’ on the Do The Woo podcast.
WordPress 7.0 Is Almost Here: And Your Feedback is Needed
Anne McCarthy from Automattic has unveiled new features for WordPress 7.0, encouraging feedback before its release. The update promises more flexible navigation, responsive grid styles, and enhanced workflows, all aimed at improving user experience.
The Core team’s planning post highlights priorities like streamlining the editor, simplifying navigation, and introducing new block tools. These updates aim to make site-building more efficient and collaborative. However, real-world testing is crucial. The Test team seeks contributors to explore experimental AI-powered features, such as type-ahead suggestions and comment moderation assistance. This is an opportunity for users to provide high-level feedback and influence WordPress 7.0’s final form.
Australians, Rejoice: .com.au and .net.au Transfers Are Here
Australian WordPress users have reason to celebrate with support for incoming transfers of .com.au and .net.au domains. This process promises simplicity and transparency, allowing domains to be managed in one place.
The transfer comes with familiar eligibility requirements, such as an ABN or business name, ensuring compliance with registration standards. This development simplifies domain management for Australian users, aligning with WordPress’s broader goals of enhanced usability and user experience.
What To Do
- Developers and site operators should engage in WordPress 7.0 testing to provide feedback on new features.
- Australian domain owners can transfer their .com.au and .net.au domains to streamline management.
- Community members should participate in revamped meetups to enhance their WordPress skills and networking opportunities.
