Wordpress Get_plugin_version And Display Via Plugin_row_meta

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Kalali

May 31, 2025 · 3 min read

Wordpress Get_plugin_version And Display Via Plugin_row_meta
Wordpress Get_plugin_version And Display Via Plugin_row_meta

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    Displaying WordPress Plugin Version with get_plugin_version and plugin_row_meta

    This article will guide you through the process of retrieving and displaying your WordPress plugin's version number directly on the plugins page using the get_plugin_version function and the plugin_row_meta filter. This is a crucial step for maintaining transparency and allowing users to easily identify which version of your plugin they are running. Knowing the version number is essential for troubleshooting, updates, and compatibility checks. We'll cover the code, explain its function, and provide best practices.

    Understanding the Core Functions:

    • get_plugin_version($plugin_file): This function, core to WordPress, retrieves the version number of a specified plugin. $plugin_file is the path to your plugin's main file (usually my-plugin/my-plugin.php). The function returns the version number as a string.

    • plugin_row_meta($plugin_meta, $plugin_file, $plugin_data, $status): This filter allows you to add custom metadata to the row of a plugin listed on the plugins page. It provides a great way to extend the information displayed without modifying core WordPress files. The parameters are as follows:

      • $plugin_meta: An array containing the current plugin metadata.
      • $plugin_file: The path to the plugin's main file.
      • $plugin_data: An array of plugin data from get_plugin_data().
      • $status: The plugin status (active, inactive, etc.).

    Implementing the Code:

    To display the plugin version, you'll need to add the following code to your plugin's main file (my-plugin.php or similar):

    Explanation:

    1. add_filter('plugin_row_meta', 'my_plugin_version_row', 10, 4): This line hooks our custom function my_plugin_version_row into the plugin_row_meta filter. The priority is set to 10 (default), and it expects 4 arguments.

    2. my_plugin_version_row function: This function checks if the current plugin file matches the main plugin file (__FILE__). If it matches, it retrieves the version using get_plugin_version(__FILE__) and adds it to the $plugin_meta array as a new metadata item using sprintf. The __('Version: %s', 'my-awesome-plugin') ensures proper translation.

    3. return $plugin_meta: This returns the updated array, including the version number.

    Best Practices:

    • Use a descriptive text domain: This allows for easy translation of the version string.
    • Error handling: While get_plugin_version generally works reliably, you might consider adding error handling for robustness.
    • Keep it concise: Avoid cluttering the plugin row with unnecessary information. The version number is usually sufficient.
    • Test thoroughly: Always test your code after implementation to ensure it displays correctly.

    By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate plugin version display, improving user experience and aiding in plugin management. Remember to replace "my-awesome-plugin" with your plugin's text domain and adjust the file path as needed. This simple addition significantly enhances your plugin's functionality and professionalism.

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