The change we’re making
In an exciting shift for our community, we are introducing a new version numbering system that will reflect the year of release. Starting in 2026, both Bedrock and Java Edition will adopt a versioning format that begins with ‘26’. This change aims to streamline the identification of updates for both creators and players alike.
It’s important to note that while both editions will share the initial digits, the subsequent numbers will diverge. This distinction arises from various factors, such as platform limitations and the more frequent release schedule of Bedrock. By maintaining a common prefix, we hope to enhance clarity and ease of understanding for our users.
The difference between version numbering in Bedrock and Java Edition
Despite the shared starting point in version numbers, Bedrock and Java Edition will exhibit differences in their release sequences. The variations stem from the unique characteristics of each platform, including their respective release frequencies.
To illustrate this with a practical example, let’s consider the year 2025. During that year, we rolled out three significant game updates: Spring to Life, Chase the Skies, and The Copper Age, with one more on the horizon—Mounts of Mayhem. By applying our new version numbering system to these releases, one can easily discern the similarities and differences between Bedrock and Java. This approach not only simplifies tracking but also enriches the overall experience for our dedicated community of players and creators.
