Magento Release Schedule: Plan Your Upgrades

• What is a Versioning System?

• Historical Release Calendar

• Current Magento Release Schedule

• 3 Technical Considerations for Developers

• 3 Common Challenges and Solutions of Magento Release Schedule

• 3 Real-World Use Cases of Magento Release Schedule

• FAQs

• Summary

What is a Versioning System?

Magento’s versioning system helps manage and communicate changes in its software.

The system depends on a three-part version number format. Each part reflects a different type of update:

• Major version (e.g., 2.x.x): It introduces significant platform changes or architectural shifts. These updates may break backward compatibility. It often needs adjustments from developers and merchants.

• Minor version (e.g., x.4.x): It adds new features and enhancements. It also helps maintain compatibility with previous versions.

• Patch version (e.g., x.x.7): It delivers security updates and performance improvements without changing existing features.

Both core Adobe Commerce and Magento Open Source follow this structure. The versions of Adobe Commerce often include extra enterprise-grade features.

Historical Release Calendar

1. Magento 2.0

• The Magento 2 version of November 2015 introduced a re-architected platform. It uses technologies like:

  1. PHP 7

  2. HTML5

  3. CSS3

  4. Latest versions of JavaScript libraries

• It brought significant improvements in performance and user experience. It featured a redesigned admin panel and full-page caching.

• It helps reduce cart abandonment and improves conversion rates. Magento 2 also emphasized modular architecture. It allows developers to customize and scale stores more than ever before.

2. Magento 2.3

• The release of November 2018 was a leap forward in frontend and backend innovation. PWA Studio enabled merchants and developers to create high-performance Progressive Web Apps. It improves mobile experiences.

• GraphQL support is a faster, more flexible alternative to REST APIs. It enhanced Magento’s headless commerce capabilities.

• Magento 2.3 also brought Multi-Source Inventory (MSI). It allows merchants to manage inventory across locations.

• Asynchronous API processing improved performance for complex integrations.

3. Magento 2.4.0

• The older version of July 2020 focused on security and performance enhancements. It introduced Elasticsearch as the default catalog search engine. It replaced MySQL search for better speed and accuracy.

• It made admin users use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) by default. It improves backend security.

• The release also included support for new payment methods and upgraded technology stacks.

4. Magento 2.4.4

• The version of April 2022 embraced the latest PHP 8.1 support. It boosts commerce platform performance and developer productivity.

• Magento 2.4.4 also included over 250 quality fixes and enhancements. It also includes updated core dependencies and third-party libraries. It strengthened compliance with security best practices.

• The release marked a turning point toward future-ready infrastructure and long-term support cycles.

5. Magento 2.4.6

• Magento 2.4.6 of March 2023 emphasized security and compatibility. It delivered many security fixes and Magento updates to frameworks such as Composer.

• Performance improvements across both storefront and admin areas were notable. It also enhanced order processing and catalog handling.

• The version demonstrated Adobe’s commitment to evolving Magento into an efficient platform.

Current Magento Release Schedule

1. Magento 2.4.8

Magento 2.4.8 is the latest stable version of Magento. It became generally available on April 8, 2025. Before the general availability, it brought beta releases. It enabled early testing and integration. Support for Magento 2.4.8 will be through April 2028. The release focuses on:

• Performance improvements to enhance speed and responsiveness.

• Quality enhancements for bug fixes and code quality upgrades.

• Security upgrades to strengthen protection against vulnerabilities.

• Third-party dependency updates keep integrations current and secure.

2. Magento 2.4.9

As of now, there are no details on Magento 2.4.9. The current focus remains on the rollout and adoption of version 2.4.8. Based on Magento’s regular release cadence:

• Magento 2.4.9 will follow the same performance and quality enhancements pattern.

• Adobe continues to focus on feature rollouts and long-term stability.

3. Planned Security Patches

Adobe helps maintain the security of supported Magento versions through scheduled patches. Upcoming patches for each supported release include:

• June 10, 2025 – Security patches for versions 2.4.8, 2.4.7, 2.4.6, and 2.4.5.

• August 12, 2025 – Continued patch support for 2.4.8, 2.4.7, 2.4.6, and 2.4.5.

• October 14, 2025 – Patches for 2.4.8, 2.4.7, and 2.4.6.

These patches ensure that Magento remains resilient to emerging threats. The Magento platform should also be secure for merchants and customers.

3 Technical Considerations for Developers

1. PHP Compatibility

Magento 2.4.7 is compatible with PHP 8.1 and 8.2. The upcoming 2.4.8 will likely extend support to PHP 8.3. Each PHP version brings deprecations and syntax changes affecting the store’s functionality.

• Audit custom code for deprecated functions or breaking changes between PHP versions.

• Update or replace incompatible third-party extensions.

• Run static code analysis tools to identify and address potential issues early.

• Test in a staging environment with the intended PHP version before production deployment.

2. Database Optimizations

Recent Magento releases include enhancements that optimize query execution and data handling.

• Plan for longer upgrade windows if your store has a large or complex catalog.

• Benchmark custom module queries to avoid performance regressions.

• Review indexing configuration. It ensures custom indexers follow Magento’s recommended best practices.

• Use the bin/magento indexer:status and indexer:reindex commands. It helps confirm index health post-upgrade.

3. API and GraphQL Enhancements

Magento continues to strengthen its GraphQL capabilities. It aligns with modern Magento commerce trends. It also improves PWA and mobile integration performance.

• Refactor outdated GraphQL queries. It helps take advantage of new resolvers and response structures in recent versions.

• Confirm all GraphQL endpoints against the updated schema. It ensures frontend and third-party apps remain functional.

• Consider transitioning RESTful integrations to GraphQL. It is for high-volume API use cases like product filtering or customer data retrieval.

• Track GraphQL performance metrics using tools like New Relic or custom APM dashboards.

3 Common Challenges and Solutions of Magento Release Schedule

Challenges	Explanation	Solutions
1. Extension Compatibility	Many third-party extensions may not be immediately compatible with the latest Magento version. It can lead to broken features or security vulnerabilities.	Inventory all installed extensions and note their version numbers. Contact extension vendors to confirm compatibility with your target Magento version. Update or replace outdated modules, especially those no longer maintained. Consider budgeting for new licenses or replacement extensions. Use the Magento Marketplace to find well-supported alternatives when necessary.
2. Custom Code Breaking	Custom modules or themes may use deprecated functions or incompatible syntax. It leads to runtime errors post-upgrade.	Deploy a staging environment for pre-upgrade testing. Use static code analysis tools like PHPStan or Magento’s Upgrade Compatibility Tool. It helps scan for deprecated or risky code. Refactor custom logic, especially when interacting with core classes or API endpoints. Document and version control any fixes you can track and reuse in future upgrades.
3. Performance Regression	After an upgrade, performance can degrade. It is due to database changes or theme incompatibility.	Benchmark your pre-upgrade site using tools like Google Lighthouse or New Relic. Re-test performance post-upgrade and compare against your baseline. Optimize slow queries and remove unnecessary JS/CSS. Consider enabling Varnish or CDN support if not already implemented.

3 Real-World Use Cases of Magento Release Schedule

Use Cases	Explanation	Benefits
1. CASETiFY	CASETiFY depends on quarterly patch releases to ensure payment and user data security. It no longer engages in full version upgrades unless necessary.	It applies Magento security only patches to stay compliant. Focuses engineering efforts on feature updates, not platform maintenance. Maintains PCI compliance with minimal disruption.
2. L’Occitane en Provence	L’Occitane uses a headless architecture with the PWA Studio. Their dev team follows every minor Magento release. It is to adopt GraphQL API updates and improve personalization.	Leverages Magento’s investments in GraphQL and caching for snappier performance. Improves mobile UX by syncing frontend deployments with backend updates. Prioritizes API efficiency, which aligns with their global omnichannel strategy.
3. Steelcase	Steelcase coordinates its upgrade cycle with extension vendors. It allows 2–3 months after Magento releases to ensure compatibility with ERP.	Reduces risk of downtime across complex product catalogs and quoting tools. Gives 3rd-party vendors time to patch or update before upgrading their core instance. Maintains a stable environment for large-scale order management and customer portals.

FAQs

1. Where can I find the official Magento release schedule?

You can view it on the Adobe Commerce Experience League. It includes upcoming releases and end-of-support timelines. Magento extension partners like Amasty and Meetanshi also provide helpful updates.

2. How often does Magento release updates?

Magento releases major updates per year, with Magento security patches issued quarterly.

3. What are the benefits of upgrading to Magento 2.4.x?

The benefits of upgrading to Magento 2.4.x include enhanced database performance. It also includes mobile-friendliness and better API functionality via GraphQL. Other benefits are better security protocols and access to the latest features.

4. How long will Magento support the 2.4 version?

Under Adobe's extended support policy, Magento will support the 2.4.x for three years. During these years, it will receive security patches and updates. These are from each minor version's release date.

Summary

Magento release schedule uses a versioning system to manage platform updates. The article explores the key features of the schedule, including:

• Major, minor, and patch versions help manage different levels of software changes.

• Key releases brought tech upgrades, security, and performance improvements.

• Upgrade planning involves assessment, implementation, and post-launch checks.

• Real-world brands like CASETiFY use Magento’s schedule for smooth operations.

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