PHP 8.6.0 RC7 has been released as the final release candidate before the stable version launches on November 19, 2026. This release includes two minor fixes, one for array_map() and an OpenSSL TLS patch, as well as critical remote-code-execution fixes from October. The most significant feature of PHP 8.6 is partial function application, which allows developers to pre-fill arguments in function calls, reducing boilerplate code. Additional enhancements include new APIs, improved crypto support, and changes to session settings, with a recommendation for developers to test the release candidate for compatibility and to address any deprecations before transitioning to production

PHP 8.6.0 RC7 Released: Final Beta Ahead of November 19 Stable Launch

PHP's team shipped php-8.6.0RC7 today as the last release candidate before the first stable 8.6 lands on November 19, 2026. The build is tiny by design, just an array_map() first-class callable fix and an OpenSSL TLS use-after-free patch, but it already includes the critical PHP2Shell remote-code-execution fixes from October. The headline feature most developers associate with 8.6 is partial function application, letting you pre-fill arguments with ? or ... placeholders to skip closure boilerplate.

PHP 8.6.0 RC7 Released: Final Beta Ahead of November 19 Stable Launch @ Linux Compatible