[wp-meta] [Making WordPress.org] #8008: Update and clarify “Release Cycle” section to reflect current major release cadence

[Making WordPress.org]

#8008: Update and clarify “Release Cycle” section to reflect current major release
cadence
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 Reporter:  tomd6r       |      Owner:  (none)
     Type:  enhancement  |     Status:  new
 Priority:  low          |  Milestone:
Component:  Handbooks    |   Keywords:
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 == Issue Description
 The Contributor Handbook page on “Release Cycle” refers to a 4-month major
 release cycle, but the official WordPress Roadmap now states that the goal
 is one major release per year. This inconsistency may confuse contributors
 trying to understand the current release process.

 === URLs of the Pages with the Issue
 https://make.wordpress.org/core/handbook/about/release-cycle/ (Contributor
 Handbook)
 https://wordpress.org/about/roadmap/ (Roadmap)

 == Why is this a problem?
 The outdated reference to a 4-month cycle contradicts the newer roadmap
 and creates confusion for contributors, especially those trying to align
 their work or expectations with current WordPress release planning.
 Maintaining consistent documentation is important for trust and clarity in
 the contributor experience.

 == Suggested Fix
 Update the section to reflect the current release strategy — i.e., one
 major release per year — as stated on the roadmap. If there’s uncertainty
 or plans are still evolving, it may be helpful to add a note acknowledging
 the shift in cadence and link to a relevant discussion or policy decision
 for context.

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Ticket URL: <https://meta.trac.wordpress.org/ticket/8008>
Making WordPress.org <https://meta.trac.wordpress.org/>
Making WordPress.org