If your website uses The7 WordPress Theme, you should know about an important change to how future updates will be distributed. The7 theme has recently changed its licensing model and update process, a change that is outside of our control. Click here to read the official announcement of The7 – https://the7.io/update-policy/
Why is The7 theme changing its update system?
For many years, The7’s development, support, compatibility updates, and pre-made website library were funded through sales on ThemeForest, a platform where you can buy WordPress Themes.
Due to declining ThemeForest sales and changes in platform fees, The7 has moved its latest and future versions to a paid direct-license model so it can continue developing the theme and providing compatibility updates.
In other words, The7 chose to move its actively developed versions to a direct licensing model rather than gradually reduce development of the theme.
What is happening to The7 version 14?
If your website currently uses The7 v.14, there is no need to panic or immediately upgrade. The7 is NOT saying that The7 v.14 will suddenly stop working. Instead, The7 v.14 is now considered the legacy ThemeForest version. It will continue to receive security and essential maintenance updates. Meanwhile, The7 v.15 and future versions will be actively developed, with new features and ongoing compatibility updates available through an active The7 plan.
What does this mean for your website?
Your existing website can continue using The7 v.14. However, websites don’t operate on the theme alone. WordPress, PHP, plugins, and other technologies are also regularly updated. As these technologies continue to evolve, an older version of The7 may eventually experience compatibility issues with newer WordPress or PHP versions.
What are your options?
Option 1: Stay with The7 v.14
You can continue using your existing The7 v.14 without purchasing a new license. And you can still update within ver. 14. Tutorial here:https://support.dream-theme.com/knowledgebase/how-to-update-the7-within-version-14/.
The7 Classic v.14 will receive security fixes and essential maintenance updates. If you stay with WordPress ver. 7.0, you can keep using The7 ver. 14. This may be suitable if you are happy with your current website and do not need the latest The7 theme features. However, you should be aware that future WordPress or PHP updates may eventually create compatibility issues with the older theme.
Option 2: Upgrade to The7 v.15
If you want to keep your website on the latest version of The7 and have access to its ongoing development and compatibility updates, you will need an active The7 license/plan. Click here to see pricing.
This is the better option if your goal is to keep your website aligned with newer WordPress and PHP versions over time.
Our Recommendation
If your priority is to keep your website updated and compatible with the latest WordPress and PHP versions, we recommend considering the new The7 license. Click here to see pricing.
