GitHub Pages has introduced several new features to enhance website hosting capabilities, including access to repository metadata, support for Jekyll plugins, and improved content management. Jekyll sites can now utilize repository information like the latest SHA1, project details, and dependency versions, which are accessible within the site.github namespace for easy integration into pages and posts. Additionally, GitHub Pages now supports the Jemoji and jekyll-mentions plugins to incorporate emojis and @mentions, mirroring the functionality found on GitHub.com, while the Jekyll-redirect-from plugin offers a simple solution for URL redirection when file names change. This update is part of ongoing efforts by Ben Balter, GitHub's Chief of Staff for Security, to promote a secure and community-friendly environment on the platform, drawing on his extensive experience in program management and open-source advocacy.