The latest release of Gutenberg, version 19.9, brings a suite of powerful features, tools, and improvements for WordPress users. From enhancing classic themes with the Style Book to introducing the new Query Total block, here’s everything you need to know about this update.

Style Book Comes to Classic Themes

One of the standout features in Gutenberg 19.9 is the introduction of the Style Book for classic themes. Classic themes that support editor styles (via add_theme_support( 'editor-styles' )) or include a theme.json file now have access to the Style Book under the Appearance > Design > Styles section in the WordPress admin panel.

For classic themes supporting the Style Book, site patterns have been relocated to Appearance > Design > Patterns, consolidating design-related features previously found under Appearance > Patterns.

New Query Total Block

The new Query Total block is designed to enhance the user experience. When used within a Query Loop block, it displays either the total number of results returned by a query or the current range in a set of paginated results.

This feature is particularly useful for improving navigation and providing context to site visitors, making it easier for them to understand the scope of content on your site.

More Highlights and Enhancements

Gutenberg 19.9 also comes with several developer-centric improvements, updates, and bug fixes.

• phpMyAdmin in wp-env: Developers can now launch phpMyAdmin in wp-env. This connects automatically to the running MySQL database service, allowing you to inspect and manage your WordPress database during development.
• Resolution Controls for Featured Images: The Cover block now offers resolution controls for featured image backgrounds.
• Inline Reset Button for Colors: An inline reset button has been added to all color controls, enabling users to reset colors for blocks and global styles with a single click.
• Query Block Design Options: Query block patterns have moved from a modal interface to a dropdown menu under the block toolbar’s “Change design” option.
• Set Homepage in Site Editor: Users can now set their homepage directly within the Site Editor. Under the Pages section, select the desired page, open the action menu, and choose “Set as homepage.”

Bug Fixes

Several bug fixes have been addressed in this release:

• Fixed site editor crashes when adding a front-page template and clicking more options.
• Resolved visual alignment regressions in the navigation menu items within the Site Editor.
• Addressed a critical error in the Style Book when blocks were not registered.
• Corrected the List View not updating when switching editor modes.

Gutenberg 19.9 is the last release of 2024.