TYPO3 v14: Three strategic innovations for integrators
Have the article read aloud.
While many are still learning v13, it's worth taking a look at v14. Three features show where the journey is heading - and what you should bear in mind when planning your next project.
While some integrators are only just familiarizing themselves with TYPO3 v13 LTS, it's worth taking a look at version 14 now - not because you have to migrate tomorrow, but because it's becoming clear where the journey is heading. And if you understand what's coming early on, you can plan better.
I took a look at the change log for the current development version and picked out three new features that I think are strategically relevant. Not the most spectacular features, but those with an impact on day-to-day work.
1. integration module: Central administration at last
TYPO3 is getting a new module under "System": Integrations. This sounds unspectacular at first, but it is an important step. Until now, webhooks and reactions were scattered across various modules. Now there is a central hub.
The module uses a three-level hierarchy:
- System (main module)
- Integrations (overview with card layout)
- Webhooks / Reactions (as sub-modules)
The interesting thing is that the module is designed from the outset as an expandable hub. Translation services, AI platforms, external tools - everything should be able to dock here. TYPO3 is preparing for external integrations to become more important.
What this means: The old module structure will continue to work via aliases, but anyone planning new integrations should be familiar with the new concept. The backend will become clearer, especially for projects with many interfaces.
2. image formats: Finally configurable instead of hard-coded
Until now, the standard output format for processed images in TYPO3 was hardcoded - usually PNG. Use WebP or AVIF? Only possible with code changes.
This changes with the new configuration option $GLOBALS['TYPO3_CONF_VARS']['GFX']['imageFileConversionFormats']. You can use this to specify
- Which format is used as default
- Which output format should be used for each input format
- Whether modern formats such as WebP or AVIF become the new standard
By default, TYPO3 retains the original format (JPG remains JPG, PNG remains PNG), everything else is converted to PNG. However, you can, for example, set all images to be output as AVIF by default - without touching a single line of Fluid code.
What this means: TYPO3 becomes more future-proof. If a new image format comes along and your graphics engine (ImageMagick or GraphicsMagick) supports it, you can activate it via configuration. No extension necessary, no code intervention.
3. HeaderData and FooterData ViewHelpers: Flexibility for edge cases
The new Fluid ViewHelpers <f:page.headerData> and <f:page.footerData> fill a gap. Until now, you had <f:asset.css> and <f:asset.script> - but what if you want to integrate dns-prefetch, preconnect or tracking scripts?
The new ViewHelpers give you direct access to <head> and the area before </body>. You can inject any HTML code that is then output via the PageRenderer API.
What this means: More control for special requirements. But be careful: The ViewHelpers do not escape automatically. If you process user input, you have to pay attention to XSS security yourself.
What the overall picture shows
These three features are just a tiny excerpt from the ChangeLog. But they show a direction:
- TYPO3 is preparing for more external integrations
- Modern web standards can be used without code changes
- Flexibility is being expanded without sacrificing simplicity
Version 14 is still in development. But anyone planning projects that will go live in 2026 should have these developments on their radar.
How to stay tuned
The ChangeLog is extensive, and not every innovation is relevant for every integrator. I will continue to filter and present the strategically interesting features here in the blog.
If you don't want to miss such updates, it's worth taking a look at my TYPO3 newsletter. There you'll find a compact summary of the most important developments - without any noise, just what's really relevant.
And another outlook: There will of course be another comprehensive video course on TYPO3 v14. I'll let you know as soon as the version is closer to release.
Sources & Links
Feature #107795 - Introduce Integrations module
Feature #93981 - Specify default image conversion processing
Feature #107056 - Introduce headerData and footerData ViewHelpers
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Who writes here?
Hi, I am Wolfgang.
Since 2006, I've been diving deep into the fascinating world of TYPO3 - it's not only my profession, but also my passion. My path has taken me through countless projects, and I have created hundreds of professional video tutorials focusing on TYPO3 and its extensions. I love unraveling complex topics and turning them into easy-to-understand concepts, which is also reflected in my trainings and seminars.
As an active member of the TYPO3 Education Committee, I am committed to keeping the TYPO3 CMS Certified Integrator exam questions current and challenging. Since January 2024, I am proud to be an official TYPO3 Consultant Partner!
But my passion doesn't end at the screen. When I'm not diving into the depths of TYPO3, you'll often find me on my bike, exploring the picturesque trails around Lake Constance. These outdoor excursions are my perfect balance - they keep my mind fresh and always provide me with new ideas.