WordPress 7.0 is facing delays as the release cycle has been extended to fix performance issues with the Real-Time Collaboration (RTC) database architecture. This unprecedented move means pre-release versions are paused until April 17, 2026, with a new schedule expected by April 22, 2026. Site owners need to be aware of these changes to prepare their sites accordingly.
Why the Delay Matters
The RTC feature, which is central to WordPress 7.0, has shown performance problems that require a more significant architectural fix rather than a simple patch. This means that if you’re managing a site that relies on this feature, you may experience issues until the new architecture is implemented. It’s crucial to stay updated on the release schedule to avoid disruptions.
New PHP Requirements
Alongside the release delay, WordPress 7.0 will no longer support PHP versions 7.2 and 7.3. The minimum requirement will be PHP 7.4, with PHP 8.2+ recommended. Site owners should check their current PHP version and upgrade to avoid compatibility issues with the upcoming version.
What’s Next? Update Schedule
With pre-release versions on hold until mid-April, site owners should prepare for a new update schedule to be announced by April 22, 2026. Keeping an eye on this timeline will help in planning necessary updates and avoiding potential downtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new minimum PHP version for WordPress 7.0?
The new minimum PHP version for WordPress 7.0 is 7.4.
Why was the WordPress 7.0 release cycle extended?
The release cycle was extended to address performance issues with the Real-Time Collaboration database architecture.
When will the new schedule for WordPress 7.0 be announced?
The new schedule for WordPress 7.0 will be announced no later than April 22, 2026.