External Repositories v1.1 released

The External Repositories plugin just got a solid upgrade. With version 1.1, you can now install and update themes as easily as plugins, directly from your own private sources. This means faster project kickoffs, cleaner workflows, and less friction when working with custom starter themes.

In addition to theme support, this release also brings UX improvements and a few visual fixes to polish the experience.

What’s new in v1.1

Here’s a quick look at the changelog:

• ✨ Theme support: External sources can now host and distribute themes just like plugins. This unlocks smooth updates for custom themes, including child themes and starter kits.
• 🚸 Improved error display: Error messages are now easier to read and more informative.
• 💄 Cleaned-up plugin error UI: Display issues in the plugin section have been adjusted for better clarity.
• 🐛 Icon fix on update screen: Plugin icons are now correctly displayed when updates are available.
• 🍱 Plugin icon added: A new icon has been added for better branding and visual consistency.

If you’re already using External Repositories, simply update the plugin in your WordPress admin and you’re good to go. No extra setup needed, theme support works out of the box.

Why theme support matters?

While plugins often get the spotlight, themes are just as essential — sometimes even more so — for setting up consistent project foundations. Whether you’re using a custom starter or a child theme based on a popular framework, having your themes distributed and updated from a central source saves time and reduces errors.

With this release, External Repositories brings the same seamless experience you’d expect from the official WordPress theme directory, but for your own themes. No need to maintain zip files manually or update each site one by one. Upload your theme once, and let the system handle the rest.

This update is especially useful for freelancers and agencies managing multiple client projects. Now your starter theme can evolve with your workflow, and those improvements will flow automatically to every site that uses it.