Transpiling PHP code from 8.0 to 7.x via Rector

PHP 8.0's release poses challenges for projects reliant on legacy code, such as WordPress, which struggles with updating to newer PHP versions due to a substantial portion of installations still running outdated versions. This situation complicates the adoption of new PHP features like typed properties and union types, which are not easily compatible with older versions. To address this, the concept of transpiling PHP code is suggested, drawing parallels with Babel's role in enabling modern JavaScript features on older browsers. Rector, a tool for PHP code refactoring, offers a solution by converting modern PHP code to be compatible with older versions, allowing developers to use new features while maintaining broader software compatibility. The article discusses various approaches to handle new PHP features, such as backporting functionalities and avoiding runtime-dependent features, emphasizing the potential of transpiling as a means to balance innovation with widespread usability.