Node.js repository trends on GitHub as project details new release cycle
The Node.js repository is trending on GitHub, with the project now using an annual April release cycle with Alpha, Current, and LTS stages.
Summary
The official Node.js repository is currently trending on GitHub. The project, maintained under the OpenJS Foundation with open governance, has shifted to an annual release schedule where new major versions debut each April. Releases progress through Alpha (6 months of active development), Current (6 months of stabilization), then LTS (30 months of support). This replaces the previous 6-month cycle where only even-numbered versions became LTS.
New release model details
- Annual releases: New major versions branch from main each October as Alpha, promoted to Current the following April
- Alpha stage: 6 months of semver-major changes allowed; API and ABI may change; signed and CITGM-tested but not for production
- Current stage: 6 months with no semver-major changes; ABI may still change; intended for library authors and CI
- LTS stage: 30 months of support with stability focus; backports require 2 weeks in Alpha or Current first; total 36 months from first Current to EOL
- Transition period: Node.js 26 and earlier follow the old schedule (6-month cycles, even-numbered LTS only)
Why it matters
The annual cycle with every major version becoming LTS gives enterprises more predictable long-term support, while the Alpha stage provides library maintainers earlier access to breaking changes.
Original reference: github.com →