Looks like it’s time for another WordPress upgrade. I have yet to do this for my own site but have done an upgrade for a client. And I have also yet to read up about this new version. So, my take today is based solely on my experience on a client’s site.
From the outset, WordPress 2.8 looks very much the same as WordPress 2.7.1. Here are three features that immediately stood out for me:
Drag and Drop Widgets
Adding, rearranging and deleting widgets used to be such a chore. Now, you simply drag and drop and you’re done. Check out the following quick screencasts to see the difference between adding and removing widgets in WordPress 2.7.1 and 2.8.
WordPress 2.7.1
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WordPress 2.8
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New Improved Theme and Plugin Editor
It is now easier to make changes to your theme and plugin files. In the previous WordPress version, you would have to strain you eyes to read the code and make changes to it. What I used to do was to copy the code, paste it into Dreamweaver, make changes to the code and then paste it back into WordPress or FTP it directly to the theme folder.
But now, it’s much easier with the new editor. You can make changes directly within WordPress without pulling out whatever hair you have left. The lines are numbered so that you can easily find the line mentioned in your code error. The syntax highlighting makes it easier for you to quickly see where the error is. It also makes adding and editing text a much smoother process.
Theme Installer
Whilst the previous version introduced a plugin installer, now you can do the same with themes. So, for those of you who don’t feel comfortable FTPing, this is definitely good news for you. In fact, even if you’re an FTP expert, the idea of not having to leave Wordpress, download the theme zip file, unzip the theme folder and upload the folder is almost like a dream come true 
For a more complete overview of the version 2.8, check out the Wordpress Codex in the related links below. I know how exciting it is to have these new features but remember to do your homework before you upgrade. Check your plugin compatibility and backup, backup, backup.
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