Austin, TX – October 4, 2024-WP Engine has taken legal steps against Automattic, which owns WordPress, emphasizing that such anti-competitive actions cause serious harm to the ecosystem of the open-source platform.
In the filed lawsuit, WP Engine states that these hurtful forces emanating from Automattic are causing chaos within the WordPress space and are also working against the fundamental values of an open and free community. These values have over the years been identified as contributors to the growth of the platform.
In the filing, WP Engine further alleges that Automattic is infringing on its business governance within WordPress which raises alarm on who makes such critical decisions that affect millions of users around the globe.
The complaint stresses that such trends could be detrimental in the long run, promoting the idea of reduced competition and creativity within the WordPress setting.
“This case is not just about protecting our business interests; it’s about safeguarding the future of the WordPress ecosystem,”
WP Engine stated.
“WordPress was built on openness, and we fear that these actions could compromise its ability to remain a reliable, community-driven platform, especially as AI reshapes web development.”
Matt Mullenweg and Automattic’s self-proclaimed scorched earth campaign against WP Engine has harmed not just our company, but the entire WordPress ecosystem. The symbiotic relationship between WordPress, its community and the businesses that invest millions to support WordPress…
— WP Engine (@wpengine) October 3, 2024
The dispute occurs at a time when Artificial Intelligence AI is becoming predominant in web design, content management systems, and user engagement with content, among other applications.
In a press Statement, WP Engine took the position that, however, there has never been a point in time when these concerns are more relevant than now when developers and businesses are embracing the integration of artificial intelligence into WordPress websites.
Automattic has not yet made any public announcement concerning the lawsuit. As things stand at the moment, important decisions are yet to be made in the litigation process, which will greatly affect the management structure of the WordPress application and its place in the new world dominated by artificial intelligence technologies. Further updates are expected.
Source: https://wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Complaint-WP-Engine-v-Automattic-et-al.pdf
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