In the previous roadmap entry we mentioned somethings we would be doing for the v1.6.0 release.

a) We are currently working on a whole new updated template for v1.6.
We have long been aware that the look of our current "default" out-of-the-box "classic" template is old fashioned, rather drab, and doesn't present our core product in the best of light. Well, that's changing soon!

The new template sports the following important features:

a new modern look and feel
built specifically for HTML5, will be able to take advantage of CSS3 features where appropriate.
responsive, and therefore works just as well on mobile/tablet displays as on desktops.
easier to skin and adapt to custom requirements. There are even plans to prepare a style-guide to help designers put together their custom template updates more quickly and easily.
lightbox for product images.
jQuery support built-in.
and much more.


b) Even the HTML-formatted emails are getting a face-lift too.
c) And a little love behind-the-scenes with the admin interface.
d) And the list could go on... We will be doing some feature tweaking/bug fixing for v1.6 as well.

To expand on that, we would also like to share some other new features that will be part of the v1.6.0 release

1) Guest Checkout

Based on the current COWOA plugin, but rewritten to integrate more closely with core code, and provide a cleaner checkout experience.

2) Abbreviated Checkout.

This provides a shorter checkout experience, with shipping/payment selection on a single screen along with javascript/ajax enhancements.

3) javascript/ajax support in admin/catalog.

Loading jquery from CDN and an infrastructure to access ajax code via a controller/dispatcher architecture

4) New Installer

The new intaller reduces the number of steps to install Zen Cart as well as using javascript/ajax to provide a simpler experience,
along with more intelligent tests, and where possible automated filesystem changes to write configuration files and create/rename admin directories.

5) Admin Dashboard widgets

A new infrastructure to create admin dashboard widgets that are easily customisable using plugins and also can be managed within the admin access/profiles system.
The dashboard layout can be changed using ajax drag and drop, and are customisable per admin user.