WordPress has unveiled an early version of its AI development tool, Telex, at WordCamp US 2025 in Portland, simplifying the creation of Gutenberg blocks, the modular components of WordPress websites.
During his keynote address, CEO Matt Mullenweg introduced Telex as a “V0 or Lovable” prototype, drawing parallels to popular vibe-coding services that employ prompt-based AI interfaces for software development. He demonstrated Telex’s capabilities by generating Gutenberg blocks, including a simple marketing animation. Telex is accessible via its dedicated domain, telex.automattic.ai, and is currently labeled as “experimental.” Users can input prompts to generate specific content blocks, which are then delivered as a .zip file. This file can be installed as a plugin on a WordPress site or within WordPress Playground, a platform that allows WordPress to run in a web browser without requiring a host.
The introduction of Telex aligns with WordPress’s earlier announcement about the formation of an AI team. This team is tasked with guiding the development of AI products that are consistent with the company’s long-term objectives. Despite the initial excitement, early testers have reported that Telex is still in its nascent stages. Several test projects either failed or required substantial additional work to function correctly.
Despite these early challenges, Mullenweg expressed optimism about the potential of AI to advance WordPress’s mission. He emphasized that WordPress aims to democratize publishing by making complex tasks, such as coding, accessible to a wider audience. Mullenweg highlighted the importance of providing these tools in an open-source, low-cost, and accessible manner across various languages, ensuring users have ownership and rights. “At the core of it, there is a seed of something, which is so enabling,” he stated, emphasizing the exciting opportunities AI presents for building within the WordPress ecosystem.
In addition to Telex, Mullenweg showcased a simpler AI tool developed during Contributor Day. This tool functions as a WordPress help assistant within the browser. He also mentioned his preferred AI browser, Perplexity’s Comet, which facilitates interaction with WordPress through its interface.
Addressing ongoing legal matters, Mullenweg provided a brief update on the dispute with WP Engine, a hosting provider. WordPress alleges that WP Engine is profiting from WordPress’s work without contributing sufficiently in return. Consequently, WordPress is seeking trademark licensing from WP Engine to prevent customer confusion regarding their association. “The quick update is, it’s working its way through the legal system. We trust in the fairness of the courts,” Mullenweg stated. He further noted that a settlement conference occurred, but the CEO of WP Engine did not attend. The case is currently progressing through the legal process.
