Two very interest WordPress plugins have debuted recently. Both are built by core WordPress developers, both offer a way to push specific updates to the WordPress core through a simple plugin as opposed to a full WordPress update, and they do it safely without modifying any core files.
- Hotfix – “This unofficial plugin provides fixes for selected WordPress bugs, so you don’t have to wait for the next WordPress core release.”
- UI Labs – “UI Labs is a plugin that offers experimental WordPress admin UI features with the aim of building upon and enhancing the default WordPress User Interface.”
I must admit, the two are rather intriguing. Hotfix offers immediate fixes to certain bugs that may not be addressed until the next core update, while UI Labs offers a sneak peek at some of the upcoming design improvements. I especially like the fact that, unlike core updates, these plugins don’t modify the core files and can be deactivated at any time. Both plugins offer an incredibly safe and efficient way to obtain new bug fixes and design improvements.
How do you feel about these two plugins, and what do you think about the concept of pushing core updates through plugins?
Hotfix fills a definite need. People complain about updates coming too often (like 3.0.1 to 3.0.5), and the ability to quickly get out simple fixes to people who need them is important.
UI Labs is just a cool idea. 🙂