On August 18th, 2015, WordPress Version 4.3, named after jazz musician Billie Holiday, was released to the public. This update includes a variety of enhancements and bug fixes. If you want more information, read the WordPress Blog and view the Changelog for 4.3.
For Version 4.3:
- The database version (db_version in wp_options) was updated to 33055.
- The Trac revision is 33635.
Key Updates
Enhanced Password Management
- Passwords are now more secure with improved selection and change processes.
- A strong password is provided by default, with the option to choose your own.
- A password strength meter and the option to hide your password from view are included.
- The new password interface is available on the password reset and WordPress install screens.
- Passwords will no longer be emailed, and password reset links will expire in 24 hours.
- Email notifications will be sent when an email or password is changed.
Site Icons
- Site owners can manage their favorite mobile icons directly from the WordPress admin area.
- Site Icons are theme-independent and do not require additional theme support.
Multisite and Editor Improvements
- The content for both Visual and Text editors is now processed the same way, enhancing consistency.
- Comments are turned off by default on pages and custom post types.
Developer Updates
Menu Management
- Faster previewing of menu changes in the Customizer.
- A new singular.php theme template has been added to the Template Hierarchy, simplifying theme development.
Customizer Enhancements
- New Customizer Panels and Sections.
- New Customizer Media Controls.
- The Site Icon API has been introduced.
PHP7 Preparation
- PHP4-style constructors are deprecated in anticipation of PHP7’s relePHP7’ster this year.
- The old Distraction Free Writing code has been removed.
What’s New
What’s Enhancements
- Formatting Shortcuts in the visual editor:
- Use * or – to start an unordered list.
- Use 1. or 1) to start an ordered list.
- Use ## for H2 and ### H3 (up to H6).
- Use > to transform text into a blockquote.
Comments
- New pages will have comments turned off by default.
Appearance
- Menus can now be managed in the Customizer with live preview capabilities.
- Customizer improvements include enhanced accessibility, smoother menu creation, and location assignment.
- The Site Icon feature allows you to manage your site’s favorite app icon from the Admin area.
- A Customize link has been added to the toolbar for swift changes.
Users
- Improved Passwords: A strong password is automatically generated when adding new users or resetting passwords.
You can download WordPress 4.3 or update through your Dashboard by navigating to Dashboard → Updates and clicking “Update Now.” Sites with” automatic background updates will begin updating to WordPress 4.3 automatically.
