Last week, a new version of WordPress was released. When you update to a new version of WordPress, the software powering your website is improved. Whether you’ve updated yet or not, here is TL:DR of WordPress 4.8.
ProTip: With any new WordPress release or update always remember to create a backup of your site. If you have never created one try UpdraftPlus plugin. It’s pretty simple but if you need help reach out to our WP-Live Reps and we will walk you through the process
Four New Widgets Added in WordPress 4.8 Update
1. Image Widget
Prior to WordPress 4.8 if you wanted to add an image to your widget sidebar you had to install the image widget plugin. With the new WordPress 4.8 release you won’t have to do that because they added an image widget to the default set.
2. Audio Widget
Are you a speaker, musician or just plain music lover? If you are, you can now include an audio widget to showcase your latest song, podcast, or speech. Only one audio file per widget can be included, however there are rumors of playlist functionality being added in the future. Stay tuned … 🙂
3. Video Widget
Just like the new Audio widget, you can now include a video file of your choice in a widget area!
4. Visual Editor Added to the Text Widget
For those of us who don’t know HTML, the text editor now includes the beloved visual editor. So get to work adding that contact info!
Better Link Editing in the Visual Editor
If you’re like me, creating links inside of visual/text editor seems a little wonky. WordPress 4.8 added a visual cue to help distinguish when the cursor is inside of a link element or not. This improvement is a byproduct of the ongoing work toward Gutenberg, WordPress’s new block-based editor (release date for Gutenberg is unknown).
Events and News Updates In the WordPress Dashboard
Curious about the WordPress community in your neighborhood? The your WordPress dashboard will now feature a ‘WordPress Events and News’ section. Check it out, and find out when the latest WordCamp is happening in your own backyard!
Next Steps to Update to 4.8 and Use the New Features
- Create a backup of your site (try this plugin)
- If you haven’t already, update your site to 4.8 (Settings > General > Please Update Now)
- Try adding each new widget listed above in a widget area (Appearance > Customize > Widgets)
- Play with the link boundaries by setting a hyperlink in the visual editor (Page/Post > Edit)
- Visit the Dashboard to see the updated news and events feed