In a surprising twist in the ongoing legal tussle between Automattic and WP Engine, WordPress.org has introduced a quirky new requirement for users attempting to log in. As of now, users must declare their appreciation for pineapple on pizza by checking a box that reads, “Pineapple is delicious on pizza” before they can access their accounts. This unusual move has sparked conversations across social media platforms, adding a layer of humor to an otherwise serious legal battle.
The change was first noted on December 17, 2024, and has since been confirmed by various media outlets. The mandate comes in the wake of a preliminary injunction issued by a California District Court, which ordered Automattic to cease its previous login requirement. Previously, users had to affirm they were not affiliated with WP Engine in any capacity to log in. The court’s decision aimed to prevent Automattic from blocking WP Engine’s access to WordPress.org, a platform that is integral to many WordPress-based websites.
While the debate over pineapple as a pizza topping has long been a light-hearted topic among food enthusiasts, this latest development takes on a more serious tone. The introduction of the pineapple pizza checkbox is seen as Automattic’s cheeky response to the court’s ruling, rather than a complete compliance with the injunction.
The dispute between Automattic, the parent company of WordPress, and WP Engine has been escalating for months, primarily revolving around allegations of trademark infringement. Automattic’s CEO, Matt Mullenweg, has been vocal about his concerns regarding WP Engine’s practices and its impact on the WordPress community.
In a blog post dated September 21, Mullenweg referred to WP Engine as a “cancer to WordPress,” criticizing the hosting service for its lack of contribution to the open-source community. He pointed out that while WP Engine generates significant revenue from WordPress sites, it contributes minimally back to the development of the platform compared to Automattic.
In response to Mullenweg’s comments, WP Engine issued a cease-and-desist letter to Automattic, further intensifying the ongoing feud. The legal battle has raised questions about the future of WordPress and the roles that various companies play within its ecosystem.
The introduction of the pineapple pizza checkbox has also reignited discussions about the community’s stance on trademark use and the responsibilities of companies that operate within the WordPress space. Many users have taken to social media to express their amusement and frustration over the situation, with some praising Automattic’s clever yet contentious approach.
Despite the playful nature of the new requirement, the underlying issues remain serious. The legal implications of the dispute could have far-reaching effects on both companies and their users. As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see how both parties navigate this complex landscape and what further actions they may take in response to the court’s rulings.
For now, users of WordPress.org must embrace their feelings about pineapple on pizza before they can log in, highlighting the unique intersection of legal battles and cultural debates in the tech world. This peculiar requirement serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by companies in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
