{"id":8333,"date":"2025-12-02T03:18:46","date_gmt":"2025-12-02T03:18:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/?p=8333"},"modified":"2025-12-22T07:26:11","modified_gmt":"2025-12-22T07:26:11","slug":"wordpress-6-9","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9","title":{"rendered":"What\u2019s new in WordPress 6.9?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>WordPress 6.9<\/strong> marks the second and final major release of the platform in 2025. Following the mid-April release of WordPress 6.8, this update brings a wide range of enhancements that benefit site owners, designers, developers, and everyday users alike. While there&rsquo;s no single standout feature, this release is packed with functional improvements that aim to enhance creativity, performance, and workflows.<\/p><p>As expected, WordPress 6.9 delivers a variety of smaller &ndash; but meaningful &ndash; enhancements. From upgraded tools for developers to a smoother editing experience for site owners, these changes are designed to support more flexible site-building and faster workflows.<\/p><p>However, unlike past major versions, WordPress 6.9 doesn&rsquo;t launch with a new default theme. Instead, the next theme, <strong>Twenty Twenty-Six<\/strong>, is scheduled for release in 2026. While we wait, this update still sets the stage for how WordPress is evolving out of the box.<\/p><p>Keep reading for my full breakdown of what&rsquo;s changed, what&rsquo;s improved, and how you can make the most of the new features in WordPress 6.9.<\/p><p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#What_are_the_new_blocks_in_WordPress_69\">What are the new blocks in WordPress 6.9?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Accordion_block\">Accordion block&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Terms_Query_block\">Terms Query block&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Time_to_Read_and_Word_Count_blocks\">Time to Read and Word Count blocks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Math_block\">Math block&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#What_are_the_new_block_features_in_WordPress_69\">What are the new block features in WordPress 6.9?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Collaborate_with_block_Notes\">Collaborate with block Notes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Hide_blocks_from_view\">Hide blocks from view<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Stretchy_text_blocks\">Stretchy text blocks&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#New_HTML_element_for_the_Button_block\">New HTML element for the Button block&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#What_other_changes_are_coming_in_WordPress_69\">What other changes are coming in WordPress 6.9?&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Create_draft_pages_directly_from_the_Navigation_block\">Create draft pages directly from the Navigation block&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Better_accessibility_for_the_Command_Palette\">Better accessibility for the Command Palette<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Fine-tune_block_access_in_containers\">Fine-tune block access in containers&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Notable_changes_for_developers\">Notable changes for developers&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Abilities_API\">Abilities API<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Additional_API_and_developer-focused_enhancements\">Additional API and developer-focused enhancements<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wordpress-6-9\/#Wrap_up\">Wrap up&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-new-blocks-in-wordpress-6-9\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_new_blocks_in_WordPress_69\"><\/span>What are the new blocks in WordPress 6.9?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><p>Each of the new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/tutorials\/wordpress-blocks\">blocks<\/a> in WordPress 6.9 is built to help you streamline workflows, present information more clearly, and create better user experiences &ndash; right from the editor.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-accordion-block-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Accordion_block\"><\/span>Accordion block&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>The <strong>Accordion block<\/strong> makes it easy to create collapsible sections, helping users organize content in a clean and interactive way.&nbsp;<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a240557086c3\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a240557086c3\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1125\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block.png\/public\" alt=\"An Accordion block in the block editor, showing the list view that displays the Accordion block structure\" class=\"wp-image-8351\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block.png\/w=1999,fit=scale-down 1999w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>The Accordion block is made up of three components:<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accordion Item <\/strong>&ndash; the parent block of accordion content<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Accordion Heading<\/strong> &ndash; where you type the clickable title or question<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Accordion Panel<\/strong> &ndash; where you can add any other blocks<\/li>\n<\/ul><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a2405570b03f\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a2405570b03f\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1255\" height=\"378\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block-list-view.png\/public\" alt=\"An Accordion block in the block editor, showing the list view that displays the Accordion block structure\" class=\"wp-image-8352\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block-list-view.png\/w=1255,fit=scale-down 1255w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block-list-view.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block-list-view.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/accordion-block-list-view.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1255px) 100vw, 1255px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>To use an Accordion block, add it like any other block from the editor. You&rsquo;ll see two fields: the <strong>Accordion Heading<\/strong>, where you type the title or question, and the <strong>Accordion Panel<\/strong>, where you insert content.&nbsp;<\/p><p>One standout feature is the flexibility to add <strong>any type of block<\/strong> inside the Accordion Panel. For example, you can create a two-column layout with a paragraph and an image. This allows you to go beyond plain text &ndash; adding visual elements to surprise and engage your site visitors.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-terms-query-block-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Terms_Query_block\"><\/span>Terms Query block&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>WordPress 6.9 introduces a powerful new feature: the ability to dynamically display the <strong>title<\/strong>, <strong>post count<\/strong>, and <strong>description<\/strong> for blog posts grouped by <strong>category<\/strong>, <strong>tag<\/strong>, or any custom <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/tutorials\/wordpress-taxonomy\">WordPress taxonomy<\/a>.<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a2405570ccba\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a2405570ccba\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1125\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-start.png\/public\" alt=\"Terms Query block in the block editor, showing the starting prompt to select a variation to start with\" class=\"wp-image-8353\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-start.png\/w=1999,fit=scale-down 1999w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-start.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-start.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-start.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-start.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>In this example, I have three categories: <strong>Female<\/strong>, <strong>Male<\/strong>, and <strong>Uncategorized<\/strong>. I&rsquo;ve configured the block to show the number of posts in each category (the count) and display the description for any category that includes one &ndash; in this case, &ldquo;Female.&rdquo;&nbsp;<\/p><p>As I begin, the block prompts me to choose one of two variations to display my terms query. These can be adjusted or expanded even after the block is inserted.<\/p><p>I set my taxonomy to <strong>Category<\/strong> from the dropdown in the block&rsquo;s settings panel.&nbsp;<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a2405570f226\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a2405570f226\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1971\" height=\"1110\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-block.jpg\/public\" alt=\"Terms Query block with the taxonomy settings shown to select between Categories and Tags\" class=\"wp-image-8354\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-block.jpg\/w=1971,fit=scale-down 1971w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-block.jpg\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-block.jpg\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-block.jpg\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/terms-query-block.jpg\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1971px) 100vw, 1971px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>On the front end, the visitors will see a list displaying the <strong>category title<\/strong>, <strong>number of posts<\/strong>, and <strong>category description<\/strong> &mdash; all updated dynamically based on the content.&nbsp;<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-time-to-read-and-word-count-blocks\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Time_to_Read_and_Word_Count_blocks\"><\/span>Time to Read and Word Count blocks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>Many modern websites display estimated reading times to help readers know what to expect. WordPress now supports this natively with the new Time to Read block.<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a24055711229\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a24055711229\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1043\" height=\"463\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/time-to-read-block.png\/public\" alt=\"Time to Read and Word Count blocks displayed in the block editor\" class=\"wp-image-8355\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/time-to-read-block.png\/w=1043,fit=scale-down 1043w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/time-to-read-block.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/time-to-read-block.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/time-to-read-block.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1043px) 100vw, 1043px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>This block is also transformable into a Word Count block using a toggle, giving you two metric options.<\/p><p>Both features can be displayed independently &ndash; you can choose to show only the reading time, or only the word count. Another option is to add both blocks to show both metrics &ndash; it all depends on your content strategy.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-math-block-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Math_block\"><\/span>Math block&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>WordPress now makes it easy to display complex math formulas using the new <strong>Math block<\/strong>. This feature supports both standalone mathematical expressions and inline math notation within regular text.<\/p><p>To use it, simply add the Math block and enter your formula in the provided text field. The block renders your equation cleanly, making it ideal for educational content, technical tutorials, or any content involving calculations.<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a24055713d94\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a24055713d94\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1971\" height=\"1110\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/math-block.jpg\/public\" alt=\"Math block in the block editor, showing the text field to enter the math equation\" class=\"wp-image-8356\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/math-block.jpg\/w=1971,fit=scale-down 1971w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/math-block.jpg\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/math-block.jpg\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/math-block.jpg\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/math-block.jpg\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1971px) 100vw, 1971px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-new-block-features-in-wordpress-6-9\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_new_block_features_in_WordPress_69\"><\/span>What are the new block features in WordPress 6.9?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><p>There are a good number of new and improved blocks coming with WordPress 6.9. Some of these blocks were under development for quite some time, never making it into a final release until now.&nbsp;<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-collaborate-with-block-notes\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Collaborate_with_block_Notes\"><\/span>Collaborate with block Notes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>With the introduction of the <strong>Notes<\/strong> feature, we get our first look at what editorial collaboration in WordPress will look like. This marks the beginning of <strong>Phase 3 &ndash; Collaboration<\/strong> of the Gutenberg Project, bringing asynchronous commenting capabilities directly into the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/tutorials\/gutenberg-wordpress\">block editor<\/a>.<\/p><p>The Notes feature enables <strong>administrators<\/strong> and <strong>editors<\/strong> to leave threaded comments &ndash; called Notes &ndash; on any block, similar to how comments work in Google Docs. These Notes are visible to the entire editorial team, allowing collaborators to reply to or act on feedback directly within the editor.<\/p><p>Here, I start by adding a note to the first paragraph using the option menu for the paragraph as shown in the list view.&nbsp;<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a24055715ffc\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a24055715ffc\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1099\" height=\"514\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/add-block-note.png\/public\" alt='Paragraph block options menu in the list view with the \"Add note\" option highlighted' class=\"wp-image-8357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/add-block-note.png\/w=1099,fit=scale-down 1099w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/add-block-note.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/add-block-note.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/add-block-note.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1099px) 100vw, 1099px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>Once selected, the right-hand sidebar updates, allowing you to write your comment. For example, you might leave a message like &ldquo;Change font to Georgia,&rdquo; which the editorial team can then review and implement. Any note can be edited or deleted at any time.&nbsp;<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a24055717c33\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a24055717c33\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1972\" height=\"1110\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes.png\/public\" alt=\"The block note threads on the right side of the editor panel\" class=\"wp-image-8358\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes.png\/w=1972,fit=scale-down 1972w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1972px) 100vw, 1972px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>If I select the image block, the toolbar displays <strong>Gravatar icons<\/strong> of team members who have left comments. Clicking these icons opens the Notes sidebar, revealing threaded discussions related to the selected block.<\/p><p>Even if the page contains multiple Notes, the sidebar focuses only on the ones related to the currently selected block &ndash; for instance, the image block in this example.<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a24055719b3b\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a24055719b3b\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1972\" height=\"1110\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes-selected.png\/public\" alt=\"An example when a block Note is selected, showing the focused block and the comment thread\" class=\"wp-image-8359\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes-selected.png\/w=1972,fit=scale-down 1972w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes-selected.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes-selected.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes-selected.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/block-notes-selected.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1972px) 100vw, 1972px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>The Notes feature is available for pages, posts, and custom post types. Team members will receive <strong>email notifications<\/strong> when a Note is added. Notifications can be turned off via <strong>Settings &rarr; Discussion<\/strong> by deselecting <strong>&ldquo;Anyone posts a note.&rdquo;<\/strong><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-hide-blocks-from-view\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hide_blocks_from_view\"><\/span>Hide blocks from view<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>One of the most requested features over the years is finally here &ndash; the ability to hide individual blocks from displaying on the front end of a WordPress site. This addition is particularly useful when experimenting with layouts, testing content, or collaborating with others.<\/p><p>You can hide any block using either the <strong>toolbar<\/strong> or the <strong>List View<\/strong>. In this example, I&rsquo;m using the List View to hide the image.&nbsp;<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a2405571bafc\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a2405571bafc\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-14.png\/public\" alt='mage block options menu in the list view with the \"Hide\" option ' class=\"wp-image-8362\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-14.png\/w=1600,fit=scale-down 1600w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-14.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-14.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-14.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-14.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>Once hidden, the block will display an <strong>eye icon with a slash<\/strong> next to it in the List View, indicating it&rsquo;s no longer visible on the live site.&nbsp;<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a2405571da5e\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a2405571da5e\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-15.png\/public\" alt=\"A list view containing the hidden image block\" class=\"wp-image-8363\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-15.png\/w=1600,fit=scale-down 1600w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-15.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-15.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-15.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/image-15.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>After hiding a block, you might wonder whether it leaves a noticeable gap on the front end. To check, preview or view the page live. Hidden blocks do not leave visible empty spaces &ndash; the content is simply removed from view.<\/p><p>To make the block visible again, you can either click the <strong>eye icon<\/strong> in the toolbar or select <strong>Show<\/strong> from the block&rsquo;s options in the List View.<\/p><p>This initial release introduces the core hiding functionality, but future updates may include advanced options like:<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Conditional logic<\/strong> for block display based on screen size or user device<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Date-based visibility<\/strong> for scheduled content<\/li>\n<\/ul><p>This new feature opens up more flexible workflows and content experiments, right from the block editor.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-stretchy-text-blocks-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stretchy_text_blocks\"><\/span>Stretchy text blocks&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>WordPress 6.9 introduces new companion blocks for <strong>Headings<\/strong> and <strong>Paragraphs<\/strong>, making it easier to create text that adjusts seamlessly across different screen sizes.<\/p><p>In this example, I am starting with a regular Heading and then converting it to a Stretchy Heading block. To do this:<\/p><ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Start with a standard Heading block.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transform it into a <strong>Stretchy Heading<\/strong> using the block options.<\/li>\n<\/ol><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a2405571fc3f\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a2405571fc3f\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1760\" height=\"1110\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/stretchy-headings.png\/public\" alt='Heading block transform menu with the \"Stretchy heading\" option highlighted' class=\"wp-image-8364\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/stretchy-headings.png\/w=1760,fit=scale-down 1760w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/stretchy-headings.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/stretchy-headings.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/stretchy-headings.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/stretchy-headings.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1760px) 100vw, 1760px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>This version automatically resizes to fit the container, ensuring optimal readability on all devices.&nbsp;<\/p><p>Note that when using stretchy text, the option to manually set font size is removed. Font scaling is handled automatically to maintain responsiveness.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-new-html-element-for-the-button-block-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"New_HTML_element_for_the_Button_block\"><\/span>New HTML element for the Button block&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>In the <strong>Advanced settings<\/strong> of the Button block, you now have the option to use a <strong>&lt;button&gt;<\/strong> element instead of the default <strong>&lt;a&gt;<\/strong> (anchor) tag.<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a24055721fd9\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a24055721fd9\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1097\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/button-block-elements.png\/public\" alt=\"A button block in the editor with the HTML element settings and options highlighted\n\" class=\"wp-image-8365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/button-block-elements.png\/w=1999,fit=scale-down 1999w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/button-block-elements.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>This enhancement addresses a common accessibility issue &ndash; using a button as if it were a link. When incorrectly implemented, it can confuse screen readers and disrupt the user experience for those relying on assistive technologies.<\/p><p>By choosing the correct element for the intended interaction, WordPress helps ensure more accessible and semantically accurate websites.<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-other-changes-are-coming-in-wordpress-6-9-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_other_changes_are_coming_in_WordPress_69\"><\/span>What other changes are coming in WordPress 6.9?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><p>WordPress hasn&rsquo;t just added new blocks &ndash; it also introduced thoughtful enhancements to existing ones, making them even more flexible and user-friendly. These subtle yet impactful updates improve how users design, organize, and interact with content across their sites.&nbsp;<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-create-draft-pages-directly-from-the-navigation-block-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Create_draft_pages_directly_from_the_Navigation_block\"><\/span>Create draft pages directly from the Navigation block&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>WordPress 6.9 introduces a convenient new feature: the ability to create a draft page directly from the Navigation block. This is especially helpful when you&rsquo;re building a site structure and want to include links to pages that don&rsquo;t yet exist.<\/p><p>To use this feature, select the <strong>Plus (+)<\/strong> button, and choose the <strong>Create page<\/strong> option in the Navigation drop-down menu.&nbsp;<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a240557240b0\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a240557240b0\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1097\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-create-page.png\/public\" alt='A navigation block with the \"Create page\" option highlighted' class=\"wp-image-8366\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-create-page.png\/w=1999,fit=scale-down 1999w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-create-page.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-create-page.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-create-page.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-create-page.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>A pop-up will appear to add the page title. There&rsquo;s also an option to publish the page immediately, but I always prefer to leave it as a draft to avoid publishing a blank or incomplete page.<\/p><figure data-wp-context='{\"imageId\":\"6a24055725e74\"}' data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a24055725e74\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1125\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-pop-up.png\/public\" alt=\"A navigation block with the pop-up panel for page creation shown\" class=\"wp-image-8367\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-pop-up.png\/w=1999,fit=scale-down 1999w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-pop-up.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-pop-up.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-pop-up.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/navigation-block-pop-up.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" \/><button class=\"lightbox-trigger\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-label=\"Enlarge\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\" data-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewbox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure><p>Once you create the page, WordPress adds a draft link to your navigation menu. You can then navigate to the Pages section in your WordPress dashboard to open the draft and begin adding content.<\/p><p>Just remember &ndash; because the page is still in draft status, it won&rsquo;t appear in your site&rsquo;s navigation for visitors until it&rsquo;s published.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-better-accessibility-for-the-command-palette\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Better_accessibility_for_the_Command_Palette\"><\/span>Better accessibility for the Command Palette<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>Previously limited to block themes, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/tutorials\/wordpress-command-palette\">Command Palette<\/a> is now available for classic themes as well &ndash; and can be used from anywhere within the WordPress Admin.<\/p><p>Just press <strong>Cmd+K<\/strong> on macOS or <strong>Ctrl+K<\/strong> on Windows to open the Command Palette. From there, you can quickly navigate the dashboard, search for settings, or even initiate actions like <strong>creating a new page or post<\/strong>.<\/p><p>For users who rely on keyboard shortcuts, this expanded functionality introduces powerful new ways to speed up workflows and reduce clicks.&nbsp;<\/p><p>If you&rsquo;re not sure what the Command Palette can do, type in any letter to view a list of available commands starting with that character.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-fine-tune-block-access-in-containers-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fine-tune_block_access_in_containers\"><\/span>Fine-tune block access in containers&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>Perfect for design teams and pattern creation, the new <strong>Allowed Blocks<\/strong> feature lets you control which blocks are available within specific container blocks &ndash; such as <strong>Group<\/strong>, <strong>Column<\/strong>, or <strong>Cover<\/strong> blocks.<\/p><p>To access this setting:<\/p><ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Select a container block.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Click the <strong>Advanced<\/strong> section in the right sidebar and select <strong>Manage allowed blocks<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ol><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1079\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/managed-allowed-block.png\/public\" alt='A container block with the \"Manage allowed blocks\" option in the block settings highlighted' class=\"wp-image-8368\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/managed-allowed-block.png\/w=1999,fit=scale-down 1999w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/managed-allowed-block.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/managed-allowed-block.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/managed-allowed-block.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/managed-allowed-block.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" \/><\/figure><ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Deselect any blocks you want to restrict from use within that container.<\/li>\n<\/ol><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1972\" height=\"1110\" src=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/allowed-block-panel.png\/public\" alt='The \"Managed allowed blocks\" pop-up panel, showing the list of blocks that can be checked to allow them' class=\"wp-image-8369\" srcset=\"https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/allowed-block-panel.png\/w=1972,fit=scale-down 1972w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/allowed-block-panel.png\/w=300,fit=scale-down 300w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/allowed-block-panel.png\/w=1024,fit=scale-down 1024w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/allowed-block-panel.png\/w=768,fit=scale-down 768w, https:\/\/imagedelivery.net\/LqiWLm-3MGbYHtFuUbcBtA\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/allowed-block-panel.png\/w=1536,fit=scale-down 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1972px) 100vw, 1972px\" \/><\/figure><p>This is especially useful for design consistency across reusable templates or team-based site builds.<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-notable-changes-for-developers-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Notable_changes_for_developers\"><\/span>Notable changes for developers&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><p>Here are some of the changes coming to WordPress that are under the hood and not something site builders are likely to see in the user interface.&nbsp;<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-abilities-api\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Abilities_API\"><\/span>Abilities API<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>WordPress 6.9 introduces the <a href=\"https:\/\/make.wordpress.org\/core\/2025\/11\/10\/abilities-api-in-wordpress-6-9\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Abilities API<\/strong><\/a>, a standardized way for WordPress, themes, and plugins to declare what they can do. Rather than relying on custom methods, developers can now speak the same &ldquo;language&rdquo; &ndash; creating more consistent, secure, and scalable experiences, especially when integrating with <strong>AI tools<\/strong> or building collaborative features.&nbsp;<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-additional-api-and-developer-focused-enhancements\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_API_and_developer-focused_enhancements\"><\/span>Additional API and developer-focused enhancements<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p>Here&rsquo;s a quick look at other technical improvements designed to expand developer capabilities:<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/make.wordpress.org\/core\/2025\/11\/12\/changes-to-the-interactivity-api-in-wordpress-6-9\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Interactivity API<\/strong><\/a><strong> &ndash; <\/strong>now supports<strong> Fetch Priority: low<\/strong>, offering better control over when scripts load.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/make.wordpress.org\/core\/2025\/11\/12\/block-bindings-improvements-in-wordpress-6-9\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Block Bindings API<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong>&ndash;<strong> <\/strong>adds a new filter for determining which block attributes can be dynamically bound. This applies to both core and custom blocks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/make.wordpress.org\/core\/2025\/11\/19\/legacy-internet-explorer-code-removed\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Efficient script enqueueing<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong>&ndash;<strong> <\/strong>WordPress 6.9 removed legacy support code for Internet Explorer conditional scripts and styles.<\/li>\n<\/ul><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-wrap-up-nbsp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Wrap_up\"><\/span>Wrap up&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><p>WordPress 6.9 isn&rsquo;t just another routine update &ndash; it marks a strategic step forward in the platform&rsquo;s evolution. This release balances practical improvements for everyday users with robust tools for developers, making it a significant milestone in the broader Gutenberg roadmap.<\/p><p>I found that WordPress 6.9 delivers meaningful improvements across three major areas:<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>New blocks unlocked <\/strong>&ndash; Long-requested blocks like Accordion, Math, Time to Read, and Terms Query are finally available, expanding what you can do visually and functionally &ndash; without relying on third-party plugins.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Smarter, more capable existing blocks <\/strong>&ndash; Existing blocks haven&rsquo;t been left behind. From responsive text handling with Stretchy Headings to new visibility controls and dynamic navigation enhancements, WordPress continues refining the core editing experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Developer-centric enhancements <\/strong>&ndash; Behind the scenes, WordPress 6.9 introduces several powerful APIs &ndash; like the Abilities API, Interactivity API, and improved script handling &ndash; that streamline development, enhance performance, and support scalable, future-proof architecture.<\/li>\n<\/ul><p>Perhaps most importantly, this release signals the official start of <strong>Phase 3: Collaboration<\/strong>. With foundational features like <strong>Notes<\/strong> now in place, WordPress is preparing for <strong>real-time collaboration<\/strong>, a transformative shift that will make co-editing workflows smoother and more intuitive.<\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/tutorials\/how-to-update-wordpress\">Update your WordPress website<\/a> to WordPress 6.9 now to experience these new features!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>WordPress 6.9 marks the second and final major release of the platform in 2025. Following the mid-April release of WordPress 6.8, this update brings a wide range of enhancements t\u2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":431,"featured_media":7776,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2365],"tags":[],"hashtags":[],"class_list":["post-8333","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wordpress"],"hreflangs":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8333","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/431"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8333"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8333\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8458,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8333\/revisions\/8458"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7776"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8333"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8333"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8333"},{"taxonomy":"hashtags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hostinger.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hashtags?post=8333"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}