Spring isn’t the only thing in the air—new Python releases are here! Last month, Python’s core development team released versions 3.13.2, 3.12.9, and 3.14.0 alpha 5 of the language. The 3.14.0a5 version is the fifth of seven planned alpha releases. You can install this alpha release to try some new and exciting language features.
The PyPy project has also released a new version—7.3.19—featuring interpreters for Python 2.7, 3.10, and the newly introduced Python 3.11.
There’s also news from the Python Software Foundation (PSF), PyCon US 2025, PyCascades 2025, and the Python ecosystem.
Let’s dive in and explore what’s been happening in the world of Python!
Python Core Team Releases Bugfix Versions 3.13.2 and 3.12.9
On February 4, 2025, Python 3.13.2 was released as the second maintenance update for the 3.13 series. Packed with nearly 250 bug fixes and refinements, this release makes Python 3.13 even more stable and developer-friendly.
Python 3.13 introduces significant features and optimizations over Python 3.12, including an improved interactive interpreter and experimental free-threaded build mode. Explore the full changelog for detailed updates and changes in this bugfix release.
On a similar note, Python 3.12.9 was also released on February 4, 2025. It marks the ninth maintenance update in the 3.12 series. This release includes approximately 180 bug fixes, build improvements, and documentation updates since the previous release.
As always, the Python development team continues to enhance the language’s stability and performance with each release. For more details, refer to the full changelog. You can also support Python’s ongoing development through donations or sponsorship.
Python 3.14 Series Releases Fifth Alpha Version
The Python development team unveiled the fifth alpha release of Python 3.14 on February 11, 2025. This release is part of a series of seven planned alpha releases aimed at testing new features, bug fixes, and the release process before moving into the beta phase on May 6, 2025.
It’s important to note that this preview is not recommended for production environments. If you’re curious about the future of Python, installing this alpha version lets you explore the upcoming features before the final release. You’re encouraged to report any bugs via Python’s issues page. Again, for a detailed list of changes, check the full changelog.
PyPy Team Releases Version 7.3.19
The PyPy team has announced the release of version 7.3.19, which features interpreters for Python 2.7 and 3.10 and includes support for Python 3.11 in beta. The team plans to drop support for 3.10 and remove the beta label from 3.11 in the next release.
PyPy is a fast Python interpreter, serving as a drop-in replacement for CPython, thanks to its integrated tracing JIT compiler. PyPy provides binary builds for various platforms, including x86 and ARM 64-bit machines on common operating systems, with additional support for other architectures without binary releases. Developers interested in sponsoring binary releases for unsupported platforms are encouraged to reach out.
If you use the PyPy distribution for Python, then you should update to the latest version, which you can download for the following architectures:
- x86 machines on most common operating systems, including Linux 32/64 bits, macOS 64 bits, and Windows 64 bits
- 64-bit ARM machines running Linux and macOS
For more information about the 7.3.19 release, see the full changelog. The PyPy team invites you to update and contribute to the ongoing improvement of PyPy.
Python Steering Council Rejects PEP 2026 Proposal for Calendar Versioning
In recent days, the Python Steering Council rejected PEP 2026, which proposed a shift to calendar versioning for Python.
Authored by Hugo van Kemenade, the proposal aimed to align Python’s versioning with the calendar year, starting with what would have been Python 3.15 rebranded as Python 3.26 in 2026. This approach sought to simplify the understanding of release timelines, deprecations, and end-of-life schedules by making them more intuitive. The idea was to adopt a versioning scheme of 3.YY.micro, where ‘YY’ represents the release year minus 2000.
While the proposal promised clearer versioning, concerns over backward compatibility and ecosystem-wide adjustments led to its rejection.
The Python community, through discussions on platforms like the Python Discourse, expressed concerns about such a transition, emphasizing the importance of stability and continuity in versioning practices.
The proposal’s rejection means that Python will continue with its existing versioning strategy, retaining major version 3 and the annual release cycle as established by PEP 602.
Python Package Index (PyPI) Now Supports iOS and Android
Python’s reach is expanding! PyPI now officially supports iOS and Android pre-compiled wheels, making it easier than ever to develop Python applications for mobile. This support simplifies the deployment process for developers targeting mobile environments.
The breakthrough is rooted in two recently accepted PEPs:
-
PEP 730: Authored by Russell Keith-Magee, this proposal integrates iOS into CPython’s supported platforms, outlining the necessary adjustments for platform identification and subprocess support.
-
PEP 738: Written by Malcolm Smith, this PEP addresses Android support, noting its POSIX compliance and the need for platform-specific adaptations.
This is a great step into the future because Python needs to be operable on widely used mobile platforms. Existing projects like Chaquopy, BeeWare, and Kivy have already shown the technical feasibility of this support.
Python Software Foundation (PSF) Shares Updated Online Platforms
The Python Software Foundation (PSF) has shared an updated guide on where to connect with them online. The PSF remains active on several platforms to ensure the Python community stays informed and engaged.
You can access the latest news and updates through their blog, quarterly newsletter, and various social media channels, including LinkedIn, Mastodon, Bluesky, YouTube, and X for announcements.
If you’re interested in the Python Package Index (PyPI), updates and information are available on the PyPI blog. PyPI also maintains a presence on Mastodon, Bluesky, and X for essential announcements.
Staying connected with these platforms ensures you’re always in the loop about the latest developments in the Python community.
PyCon US 2025 Announces Official Schedule
The PyCon US 2025 schedule has officially been released, promising an exciting lineup for Python enthusiasts worldwide. The event will take place from May 15 to 23, 2025, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Attendees can look forward to a mix of keynotes, tutorials, and breakout sessions designed to inspire and educate.
Some of the main activities that will be taking place include:
- Keynotes: The event will feature prominent figures in the Python community. The list of speakers includes Lynn Root, Geoff Hing, Tom Meagher, Cory Doctorow, and Dr. Kari L. Jordan.
- Workshops and tutorials: Attendees can immerse themselves in hands-on workshops and tutorials. These sessions cater to various skill levels, ensuring that both beginners and advanced users can benefit from them.
- Networking: Attendees will have ample opportunities to network with fellow developers, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. From organized meetups to casual gatherings, PyCon US 2025 will be a hub for community building.
Mark your calendars! PyCon US 2025 is gearing up for a dynamic week filled with great learning and networking opportunities. Registration is open!
PyCascades 2025 Wraps Up in Portland, Oregon
PyCascades 2025 recently concluded in Portland, Oregon. The conference is well known for its warm community atmosphere and dedication to fostering connections within the Python ecosystem. This year, it brought together Python enthusiasts, developers, and community members for a weekend of talks, networking, and collaboration.
Key highlights from this year’s event included:
- Engaging talks: Attendees enjoyed a variety of talks covering topics from machine learning and data science to web development and software engineering best practices.
- Community building: PyCascades maintained its tradition of community engagement, providing spaces for attendees to connect and share their experiences.
The conference not only served as a platform for learning and development but also emphasized the importance of community and collaboration.
Essential Python Projects Release New Versions
The Python ecosystem continues to evolve and improve their tools, frameworks, and libraries. A few essential Python projects rolled out new versions. Here are two of them:
Django 5.2 beta 1 was released on February 19, 2025, marking a crucial step in the release cycle of this popular Python web framework. The beta version offers developers a glimpse into the new features anticipated in the full 5.2 release.
This release is not intended for production use but serves as an opportunity for testing and feedback to ensure a smooth final release. The beta package is available on the Django downloads page and PyPI.
Community members are urged to participate in testing and provide feedback, which is vital for the stability of the final release.
IPython 9.0 has been released, bringing a host of improvements, refactorings, and some exciting new features. With over 100 merged pull requests, it introduces powerful new theming with Unicode support and an LLM integration in the command-line interface (CLI).
This new release also introduces helpful tips at startup and offers two new pride themes, showcasing the expanded color and symbol capabilities.
What’s Next for Python?
With the release of Python 3.14 on the horizon, developers can expect exciting new features and optimizations in the coming months. Meanwhile, the Python Software Foundation continues to expand its influence, welcoming new members to shape the language’s future.
The Python ecosystem is thriving, with frameworks like Django and tools like IPython rolling out updates that push development forward.
What upcoming Python developments are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Happy Pythoning!
