Gutenberg 19.2: The Latest and Greatest in Block Editor Technology
In the world of WordPress, the Gutenberg editor has been making waves since its initial release. Now, with the introduction of Gutenberg 19.2, users can expect even more improvements and bug fixes that make content creation a breeze.
One of the standout features in this latest release is the removal of the experimental flag from the Block Bindings UI. This means that users can now seamlessly link block attributes with external data sources, opening up a world of possibilities for customization and dynamic content. With this feature, only admin users have the ability to create and modify bindings, ensuring greater control and security.
To demonstrate the capabilities of the Block Bindings UI, Vicente Canales from the Core team has shared a video in the announcement post. This video showcases the power and simplicity of this new feature, giving users a glimpse into the future of block editing.
Another notable addition in Gutenberg 19.2 is the extensibility of Preview Options. Plugin and theme developers can now introduce custom preview options in the block editor’s preview dropdown, providing users with the flexibility to view their content in different formats or environments. This enhancement opens up a world of possibilities for creators, allowing them to see their creations in the best possible light.
The Zoom Out mode has also received some enhancements in this release. Users can now easily switch between modes with the addition of an “Edit” button in the toolbar. Additionally, exiting Zoom Out mode is as simple as double-clicking on blocks. The “Shuffle” block toolbar button has been removed, streamlining the editing experience.
Content-Only mode has seen some improvements as well. Top-level locked blocks now support block styles, ensuring more consistent designs. Block icons are now displayed in the toolbar, making it easier for users to identify and work with different blocks.
In a bid to improve performance and efficiency, Gutenberg 19.2 introduces an experimental client-side media processing feature. This feature reduces the server load and has the potential to significantly enhance overall performance.
While these are the key features and changes in Gutenberg 19.2, there are several other notable highlights. A new reorder control is available at the field level on the new view configuration UI, allowing for more precise customization. The minimum supported WordPress version for Create Block is now set to 6.6, ensuring compatibility with the latest version of WordPress.
Block editor improvements include a ‘Reset’ option for the MediaReplaceFlow component, making it easier for users to undo changes. Block Library enhancements include better handling of social icons and pagination blocks, further enhancing the editing experience.
Despite the numerous improvements and bug fixes, there has been one reported issue with this release. Some users have experienced problems with the Web Stories editor. However, WordPress Core Committer Pascal Birchler has confirmed that the issue is related to Gutenberg and not Web Stories, reassuring users that a solution will be found.
For those interested in learning more about Gutenberg development practices and common pitfalls, Riad Benguella’s post on the subject provides valuable insights and guidance.
Gutenberg 19.2 is undoubtedly a step forward in the world of block editing. With its new features, enhancements, and bug fixes, users can expect a more streamlined and powerful editing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned WordPress user or just starting out, Gutenberg 19.2 is sure to impress.
