WordPress 7.0 Is Getting Real-Time Collaboration
WordPress 7.0, scheduled for release on April 9, 2026, is bringing one of the most anticipated features in the platform’s history: Real-Time Collaboration (RTC) in the Block Editor. This feature allows multiple users to simultaneously edit content using the power of Yjs CRDT technology.
Key Highlights
1. How It Works
WordPress RTC uses an HTTP polling sync provider by default for universal compatibility. CRDT update data is stored persistently using post_meta on a special internal post type called wp_sync_storage.
2. Meta Boxes Disable Collaboration Mode
Classic WordPress meta boxes are not synced by the RTC system. Collaboration is automatically disabled when meta boxes are detected. Developers should migrate to registered post meta with show_in_rest set to true.
3. Customizable Sync Transport
The sync.providers filter allows plugins to replace the default HTTP polling with WebSockets for lower-latency collaboration.
4. Collaborator Limits
Client-side Gutenberg code initially limits simultaneous collaborators to two users, but hosts can adjust this via a wp-config constant.
5. Developer Best Practices
- Always derive input values from the WordPress data store via useSelect
- Use value instead of defaultValue on input components
- Avoid side effects on block insertion
6. Testing Now
Enable RTC in Settings > Writing in WordPress 7.0 Beta 3+. RTC only works in the Block Editor and Site Editor.
WordPress 7.0 Timeline
- RC1: March 19, 2026
- Final Release: April 9, 2026 at WordCamp Asia 2026
Hashtags: #WordPress #WordPress7 #RealTimeCollaboration #WebDevelopment #Gutenberg #BlockEditor #WordPressDev
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