Business Roundup Week Ending March 29

WordPress 6.5 Delayed, Launching Tuesday

• The released of WordPress 6.5 has was postponed for a week due to disagreements over new Font Library feature implementation.
• Initially, the Font library was set to store fonts at /wp-content/fonts. However, some objected this violated core design principles, and would create issues for more complicated installs.
• It was eventually agreed that fonts will be stored at /wp-content/uploads/fonts, which should work for most sites.
• I appreciate seeing robust debate take place over issues like this. It creates a healthier WordPress, even if it leads to minor delays.
• The Font Library is going to be a game changer for core WordPress. If you want a quick peek, here’s an excellent 3 minute overview video from Anne McCarthy.

Google’s Cookie Crackdown: Is Your Agency Ready for Consent Mode v2?

• Google’s new Consent Mode v2 requires websites using Google services to have a compliant cookie consent banner.
• The requirement primarily impacts UK and EU businesses using Google Ads, Analytics, or Tag Manager.
• Failure to comply risks suspension or termination of Google Ads, Analytics, and Tag Manager accounts.
• Web agencies should notify impacted clients and offer setup services for the required consent banner.
• Setting up Consent Mode v2 involves updating scripts, creating variables/triggers, and enabling settings.
• Advanced Consent Mode has privacy concerns, as Google collects IP addresses even when users deny non-essential cookies.
• Agencies should charge clients for implementing the required changes to align with the new rules.
• New privacy regulations like the Digital Markets Act are ending the “wild west” of collecting user data online.
• Have you set up Consent Mode v2?
• Read this helpful article from Termageddon’s Hans Skillrud for more details.

Interesting News from the World of AI

• OpenAI may release GPT-5 this summer
• Adobe has launched GenStudio, a AI-powered brand asset generator
• Zoom has rolled out an AI powered Workplace for team collaboration
• Apple’s big announcement at WWDC 2024 might be an AI App Store
• (Predictable) The OpenAI store is filling up with spam

Worth a Look

• The Paid Memberships Pro has released v3 after more than 3 years of development. With CRM style dashboard and lots of new features, it’s one of their biggest updates to date. Nice work!
• 7 Game-Changing Steps to Streamline Your Agency’s Processes – a helpful article from Abby Wood on The Admin Bar.
• WooCommerce continues to lead the pack. Here are the top Woo development trends for 2024 to help your agency lead the pack, too.