Despite the fact that the world of web design and development is always excited about a new WordPress update, the introduction of its new block-based editor (otherwise known as Gutenberg) has caused a much greater stir.
WordPress 5.0 promises to deliver a streamlined editing experience and more flexibility with how content is displayed. Essentially, it is a complete redesign and re-imagination of the classic WordPress editor.
While many webmasters will find it difficult to accept and adapt to the change, Gutenberg represents a bold leap forward for WordPress. It may well be the most popular CMS in the world, but even giants like WordPress need to move with the times.
So, what can you expect from WordPress 5.0? And what is it like working with Gutenberg?
A dramatic change – how WordPress 5.0 differs from other updates
Anyone that has used WordPress for a while will know that the platform has changed quite a bit over the years. Even small, incremental updates often bring new features or functionality – 4.9 enabled users to schedule design changes in the WordPress Customizer, while 4.8 introduced various widget options and the ability to check for nearby events.
However, it’s fair to say that WordPress 5.0 brings something else entirely, not just with the new block-based editor but also with the way updates are released.
Up until now, you could count on getting two major WordPress releases per year and several mini-updates in-between. Now, the WordPress core team will move away from this scheduled release model to remove the pressure of predetermined deadlines for more significant leaps forward and more meaningful content.
Other important updates include:
- Focusing on more intuitive site-building to hold its market share against hosted website builders.
- Improvements to the WordPress Rest API, so developers will be able to more easily create applications using the platform as a framework.
- Easier, more accessible creation of custom themes thanks to the block-based editor.
A closer look at Gutenberg – the WordPress 5.0 block-based editor
By and large, Gutenberg will make it much simpler to handle how your site looks when you write posts or publish updates. Thanks to blocks of content that can be moved around effortlessly for an instant preview, Gutenberg offers more control without additional complication.
Previously, you would need the text editor or knowledge of HTML to get your posts to look a certain way. Along with edits and adjustments to text, this would also involve finding the right plugins and installing them as well as typing in the right shortcodes.
But now, you can freely customise your posts with an interface that many people will feel familiar and comfortable using.
How could your site be affected?
If your website is hosted through a managed WordPress hosting service or even a shared hosting service, your host will probably take care of the Gutenberg update for you.
However, you might have to install some changes manually. If you need help or want further information about WordPress 5.0, get in touch with us at WowWeb.