WooCommerce, the ever-evolving eCommerce platform built for WordPress, is all set for its next major update: WooCommerce 9.0 release. Scheduled for launch on June 18th, 2024, this update promises significant improvements designed to enhance the user experience for store owners and customers.
This blog post highlights the key features and changes you can expect with the WooCommerce 9.0 update, enabling you to prepare your online store for the latest functionalities.
Key Takeaways of WooCommerce 9.0:
- WooCommerce 9.0 prioritizes accessibility by adopting the <main> tag in block templates.
- The Legacy REST API will be removed, with a dedicated extension available for those requiring continued support.
- A code freeze ensures a stable release and allows developers to focus on compatibility testing.
- A well-defined release schedule with Beta and RC versions paves the way for a smooth launch.
What’s New in WooCommerce 9.0
Better Search Performance
WooCommerce 9.0 introduces an experimental feature designed to accelerate search operations within your WooCommerce store. This involves enabling full-text search indexes for product and order addresses, leveraging the power of MySQL’s advanced indexing techniques. This initiative is codenamed as “High-Performance Order Storage” (HPOS). Its aim is to optimize database efficiency and scalability for a smoother user experience.
Smoother Checkouts for Higher Conversions
Get ready for a checkout experience refresh in WooCommerce 9.0 release! The update brings a host of UI improvements designed to boost conversion rates. These include:
– A revamped order summary section with a sticky function on desktop screens, ensuring key information remains visible throughout the checkout process.
– A clearer display of local pickup options for customers seeking convenient alternatives to traditional delivery.
– An improved address form layout for a more intuitive user experience.
– Adjustments to checkout steps and the place order button for a more streamlined flow.
– Accessibility improvements have also been implemented, directly addressing feedback from accessibility expert Amber Hinds of Equalize Digital.
Product Collection Blocks
The latest iteration of Product Collection Blocks brings greater distinction between the general product catalog and specialized collections like “On Sale” or “New Arrivals.” This update ensures that only the product catalog remains filterable by users, while curated collections maintain a consistent product display regardless of applied filters. Additionally, a new preview label and tooltip clarify that the actual products displayed on the frontend might differ based on the viewing context (e.g., mobile vs. desktop).
Classic Block Templates Get New Names
WooCommerce 9.0 addresses user confusion surrounding certain block names. For instance, the “WooCommerce Single Product Block” (representing a classic PHP template) was often mistaken for the “Single Product” block (a modern block).
To address this, classic block templates have been renamed to provide a clearer distinction from their modern counterparts and better reflect their purpose. You can read the new names here.
Improved Accessibility with the <main> Tag
WooCommerce 9.0 prioritizes accessibility by updating the main HTML tag for several block templates. Previously relying on <div>, these templates will now utilize the semantic <main> tag.
This seemingly minor change carries significant weight for users with screen readers and assistive technologies, ensuring a clearer understanding of the content’s structure and purpose.
Retirement of Legacy REST API
The long-anticipated retirement of the Legacy REST API is finally here.
While previously a core functionality, it will be removed from WooCommerce 9.0. However, a dedicated extension will be available to support those still reliant on the Legacy REST API.
This move paves the way for a more streamlined and secure API experience with the modern REST API, which offers enhanced performance and developer-friendly features.
Streamlined Development Workflow with a Code Freeze
For developers eagerly awaiting the release, WooCommerce 9.0 introduces a code freeze leading up to the launch. This freeze signifies the completion of core development, ensuring a stable and bug-free release.
With the code freeze in place, developers can focus on testing their themes and plugins for compatibility with WooCommerce 9.0, minimizing the risk of last-minute hiccups.
A Smoother Timeline to Beta Testing and Release
WooCommerce 9.0 offers a well-defined release schedule, with key milestones outlined to keep everyone informed. The Beta version has been released on May 28th, 2024, followed by the Release Candidate (RC) on June 4th, 2024. The final official release will now be on June 18th, 2024.
This structured approach allows for thorough testing and bug fixes before the official launch, ensuring a smooth transition for all WooCommerce users.
Prepare Your Store for WooCommerce 9.0 Release
While the official release date is still a few weeks away, there are steps you can take to prepare your store for a seamless transition to WooCommerce 9.0 update:
- Review Plugin Compatibility: Check with your plugin developers to ensure compatibility with WooCommerce 9.0. Update or replace any plugins that might cause conflicts.
- Backup Your Store: As with any major update, creating a full backup of your store before applying the update is crucial. This serves as a safety net in case of any unforeseen issues.
- Test on a Staging Site: If possible, create a staging site to test WooCommerce 9.0 and any theme or plugin updates before implementing them on your live store.
- Stay Informed: Check the official WooCommerce documentation for the latest updates and resources related to WooCommerce 9.0.
Last Word
WooCommerce 9.0 release update promises to improve the user experience for both store owners and customers. It is anticipated to create a more accessible, efficient, and secure online shopping environment.
