PHP 8.4 is just around the corner and brings a range of exciting new features for developers, agencies, and shop owners alike. If you’re working with modern web applications, now’s the time to get familiar with what’s changing. This article breaks down the most important updates, outlines the benefits, and explains what to watch for – especially if you’re using Shopware.
Release Timeline and Background
PHP 8.4 is scheduled for official release in November 2025. This version continues PHP’s evolution with a focus on performance, security, and cleaner code. If you're still on older versions like 7.4 or 8.0, it’s time to move on – those versions no longer receive security updates.
Key New Features in PHP 8.4
- Typed Class Constants: Class constants can now be declared with a specific data type, offering better consistency and protection against type errors.
- New Standard Functions: Handy tools like
str_join()andarray_flatten()(expected) make common tasks simpler and more elegant. - Improved Error Handling: Error messages are clearer and more precise, making debugging easier.
- JIT Performance Tweaks: The Just-in-Time compiler has been further optimized – great news for resource-heavy applications.
Shopware & PHP 8.4: Compatible from Version 6.4 Onward
If you’re using Shopware, here’s some good news: Shopware is compatible with PHP 8.4 starting from version 6.4. This means many shops can upgrade to the new PHP version without major changes – assuming all plugins and themes support PHP 8.4 as well.
Practical Benefits
- Better Code Quality: Stricter typing and modern functions lead to cleaner, more maintainable code.
- Improved Performance: Internal enhancements make PHP code run faster – which can translate into shorter loading times for your shop.
- Long-Term Stability: Early adopters benefit from longer support windows and the latest tooling.
Risks and How to Prepare
As with any version upgrade, you’ll need to check your dependencies: Are all plugins, frameworks, and libraries compatible? Are you using outdated features that are deprecated or removed in 8.4? I recommend setting up a staging environment and updating to the latest Shopware release first.
Conclusion
PHP 8.4 may not be revolutionary, but it’s a meaningful step forward for modern PHP development. If you’re working with Shopware or any PHP-based framework, this update should be on your radar – and now is the best time to start preparing.
Want to get your Shopware project ready for PHP 8.4?
I can help you migrate your Shopware system to PHP 8.4 – including plugin compatibility checks, staging setup, and performance tuning. Get in touch now to upgrade with confidence!