Have you heard about the latest WordPress release, WordPress 6.6? It’s here with some great features and improvements.

WordPress 6.6, codenamed “Dorsey”, is the second major update for 2024 and the 50th WordPress release ever. This version includes new features that improve WordPress sites with creative extensions, better site management, and more opportunities for customization.

In short, WordPress 6.6 includes updates such as improved block editing, new design tools, customizations, and improvements for developers. The updates are designed to provide a smooth experience when creating and maintaining websites. In addition, some features from the previous version (6.5) have also been upgraded, focusing on performance and user experience.

Let’s explore the exciting new features and updates in WordPress 6.6.

Improvements in speed and performance

To improve the speed of WordPress sites, WordPress 6.6 has optimized resource loading, reduced redundant server calls, and improved lazy loading.

A notable update is the lazy loading of embedded content, such as social posts and videos, which now only load when you scroll to them. This reduces the loading time of the main content.

In addition, unnecessary polyfill dependencies have been removed. As modern browsers no longer need many polyfills, this reduces resource consumption and improves website performance. Also, large options are no longer automatically loaded on every page request, reducing resource usage and speeding up pages.

Synchronized pattern matching

WordPress 6.6 makes it possible to override synchronized designs, giving you more control over your site’s design.

Previously, all instances of a block pattern were updated when you changed it. Now you can edit individual instances without affecting the others. For example, you can customize an author box in a blog without affecting other pages.

Automatically restore updated plug-ins

If a plugin update causes problems on your site, WordPress 6.6 can automatically restore the plugin to a previous stable version. This ensures stability and minimizes downtime.

Keyboard shortcut to group blocks

WordPress 6.6 introduces a keyboard shortcut to group blocks faster and easier. Highlight multiple blocks and press CTRL + G (Windows) or Command + G (MacOS) to instantly group them.

Support for negative margins

You can now use negative margins directly in the editor, giving you more flexibility in page layout. Simply enter negative values in the block settings to create unique design solutions.

Improved data view in the website editor

The Website Editor now has a more organized layout, making it easier to manage designs, templates and styles. With support for bulk handling, you can further streamline your workflow.

New grid block

The new grid block makes it easier to display content such as images, text and icons. You can adjust width, height and layout options to create responsive and attractive design solutions.

Upgrades for developers

Version 6.6 offers improved APIs, extended support for JSX, and deprecates support for older PHP versions (7.0 and 7.1). This makes it easier for developers to create interactive components and future-proof their projects.

WordPress 6.6 offers a host of improvements and new features to help both site owners and developers take their projects to the next level. The update provides increased control over the look, feel, and performance of websites.

If you have questions about WordPress or website development, you can contact us at Helsingborg Design Lab. We offer customized WordPress development and create amazing WordPress products.