Wp 6.8 Beta 1: Everything You Need to Know For Latest Update

WordPress has officially released WordPress 6.8 Beta 1, introducing significant updates, new features, and performance enhancements. This beta version is now available for testing, with the final release expected on April 15, 2025.

For developers, testers, and WordPress enthusiasts, this update offers an opportunity to explore and contribute to the platform’s evolution. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover what’s new, how to test it, and why it matters.

How to Test WordPress 6.8 Beta 1

Testing the beta version helps identify and resolve issues before the final release. Here’s how you can install and test WordPress 6.8 Beta 1:

1. Using the WordPress Beta Tester Plugin

The easiest way to test is by installing the WordPress Beta Tester Plugin:

Go to your WordPress dashboard.
Navigate to Plugins > Add New and search for “WordPress Beta Tester”.
Install and activate the plugin.
Go to Tools > Beta Testing.
Select “Bleeding edge” channel and “Beta/RC Only” stream.
Update your site to WordPress 6.8 Beta 1.

2. Download and Install Manually

If you prefer manual installation, download the WordPress 6.8 Beta 1 ZIP file, extract it, and upload it to your server.

3. Update via WP-CLI

For developers who use the command line, update using:

wp core update --version=6.8-beta1

4. Test on WordPress Playground

Want to test without installing? Use WordPress Playground, an in-browser WordPress environment.

Key Features in WordPress 6.8 Beta 1

1. Gutenberg Editor Enhancements

The WordPress block editor (Gutenberg) now includes:

Data Views improvements for better content organization.
An option to ignore sticky posts in Query Loop.
General UI refinements for smoother editing.

2. Style Book for Classic Themes

Previously exclusive to block themes, Style Book is now available for classic themes with editor-styles.css or theme.json.

Preview colors, typography, and block styles easily.
Organized under Appearance > Design for quick access.

3. Speculation API for Faster Page Loads

This feature uses predictive preloading to boost site performance:

Prefetches or prerenders pages based on user interactions.
Works in Chrome 108+ and Edge 108+.
Developers can customize it using filters.

4. Stronger Security with Bcrypt Password Hashing

WordPress now uses bcrypt hashing for password security, replacing outdated methods.

Provides stronger encryption.
Enhances authentication security.
Applies automatically—no manual setup required.

5. General Bug Fixes and Performance Upgrades

Over 230 core improvements have been made, refining the WordPress experience.

Why You Should Test WordPress 6.8 Beta 1

Testing helps ensure a stable, bug-free release. You can contribute by:

Reporting issues on the Alpha/Beta Support Forum.
Submitting bug reports via WordPress Trac.
Checking known issues here.

Security Bug Bounty Program

From March 4, 2025, to April 15, 2025, WordPress is doubling security bug bounties. Visit HackerOne for more details.

Important Notes & Considerations

Upgrade Issues from Older Versions

Upgrading from WordPress versions older than 5.1 may fail due to new upgrade routines. Developers are working on a fix, so it’s best to avoid upgrading older sites for now.

Possible Changes Before Final Release

Some features introduced in Beta 1 may change before the WordPress 6.8 final release based on testing feedback.

Conclusion

WordPress 6.8 Beta 1 introduces significant improvements, from editor refinements to faster page loads and better security. If you’re a developer, blogger, or site owner, testing this version will help shape a smoother and more powerful WordPress experience.

🚀 Get started today! Download WordPress 6.8 Beta 1 and share your feedback.

Stay updated: Follow the Make WordPress Core blog for the latest developments.

Quick Recap:

✅ New Features: Improved editor, Style Book for Classic themes, Speculation API, bcrypt security. ✅ Testing Options: Beta Tester plugin, manual download, WP-CLI, Playground. ✅ Security Enhancements: Bcrypt password hashing, security bug bounties. ✅ Final Release Date: April 15, 2025.

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WordPress 6.8 Beta 1: Everything You Need to Know About the Latest Update

How to Test WordPress 6.8 Beta 1