Automattic Resumes Contributions to WordPress Development

Automattic Reinstates Contributions to WordPress Project

Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com, is adjusting its strategy once more.

A blog post, titled “Returning to Core” and released Thursday evening, detailed Automattic’s decision to resume contributions to the core WordPress project. This announcement arrives shortly after the company indicated that the 6.8 release would represent the final major update for 2025.

Renewed Commitment to WordPress Development

“Following a period of paused contributions for strategic regrouping and planning, we are prepared to resume full participation in the WordPress project,” the blog post explained. “Contributions will be directed towards key areas including WordPress Core, Gutenberg, Playground, Openverse, and WordPress.org.”

Automattic emphasized that this return signifies a renewed dedication to its foundational mission: enabling universal access to publishing tools.

The company stated it has gained valuable insights during the pause, regarding the diverse applications of WordPress, and is now focused on fostering its continued growth and success.

Current WordPress Usage Statistics

The post also highlighted that WordPress currently powers 43% of all websites on the internet.

The reasons behind this shift in direction remain unclear.

Internal Discussions Reveal Potential Motivations

Sources speaking with TechCrunch revealed that Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg communicated internally his desire to release a 6.9 version this year. This release would include an administrative interface overhaul and incorporate developments from the newly formed AI team.

“Our contributions are essential to achieving this goal,” Mullenweg reportedly stated in the internal communication.

Speculation Surrounds the Decision

Industry observers are proposing various theories regarding the change of heart. Some suggest Mullenweg may have faced external pressure, or realized the negative impact of reduced involvement on the company’s business and reputation.

Others speculate a connection to Automattic’s ongoing legal battle with WP Engine.

However, these theories remain unsubstantiated and do not align with the officially stated rationale.

Legal Dispute with WP Engine

Since 2024, Automattic has been involved in a legal dispute with WP Engine, centering on concerns that the hosting provider does not adequately contribute to the WordPress project despite its substantial revenue.

Mullenweg contends that WP Engine profits from the open-source work of WordPress without providing sufficient reciprocal support.

He also alleges that WP Engine capitalizes on the ambiguity between WordPress and its own commercial offerings. This led to WP Engine being restricted from accessing WordPress.org and a lawsuit concerning trademark infringement.

Licensing or Contributions: Mullenweg’s Stance

Mullenweg believes that WP Engine should either secure a direct licensing agreement or increase its contributions to the WordPress open-source project, or refrain from utilizing the WordPress trademark.

In response, WP Engine maintains that a license is unnecessary and that Automattic’s interpretation of trademark law is flawed, initiating a countersuit.

Recent Restructuring at Automattic

Last month, Automattic underwent a restructuring process, resulting in a 16% reduction in staff. The company cited the need for increased agility, productivity, and profitability as the driving factors behind this decision.

Sarah Perez can be reached at @sarahperez.01 on Signal and sarahp@techcrunch.com .