PHP 8.5 introduces a new URI extension, the pipe operator, and key syntax upgrades, delivering faster performance and cleaner code.

PHP, a server-side programming language used mainly for building dynamic websites and web applications, has just released version 8.5, a major update that adds new syntax, expanded attribute support, performance improvements, and multiple RFC-driven features.

One of the most significant additions is the new built-in URI extension. It provides a consistent API for parsing and modifying URLs, following both RFC 3986 and the WHATWG URL standards. Backed by uriparser and Lexbor, it replaces parse_url() in scenarios where accurate, standards-compliant handling is required