Developer Advisory: Changes in WooCommerce Core Beta Release Cycle

We are making an adjustment to the release cycle of WooCommerce Core Beta. Specifically, we’re shortening the Beta period from two weeks to one week.

Monthly releases will remain on the second Tuesday of every month. The RC period is staying the same at one week. These changes stem from internal adjustments to our release cycle, which aim to streamline the WooCommerce Core development process and ensure timely releases. Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining code quality and facilitating smoother releases.

Our first shortened Beta was released on August 29th, the RC scheduled for, today, September 5th. 

Upcoming ​​Release Schedule

We’re on track for our planned September 12 release.

How Can I Tell If This Affects Me?

If you are a developer working on WooCommerce Core or you are used to testing upcoming releases of the WooCommerce plugin before they are officially released, these changes affect you.

What Action Should I Take?

As a developer, plan for a shorter Beta period. 

Reminders about Beta

• The Beta period allows users to test new features, enhancements, and bug fixes before they are included in the official release
• Beta versions of WooCommerce can be downloaded directly from WordPress.org, or installed via our WooCommerce Beta Tester Plugin 
• The WooCommerce beta releases period allows developers to participate in testing and provide feedback before an official version is released.
• Beta versions may include breaking changes, so it’s important to test them on staging environments and make backups before upgrading.

TL;DR:

• Monthly releases continue on the second Tuesday of every month.
• Beta period has been shortened to one week.
• RC period remains one week.