A plugin is an additional component that extends the functionality of a typical WordPress installation. Theme authors who sell their themes may choose to bundle specific plugins, such as Visual Composer, Revolution Slider, or other Page Builder plugins, to enhance their themes’ features and functionality.
What are bundled plugins?
Bundled plugins provide the same core features as the standalone versions.
Some plugins prompt you for a purchase code for registration/activation after installation. However, you can disregard these prompts, as bundled plugins do not require activation or registration. These plugins will function as intended once the theme has been activated or registered.
When a plugin update is available, the theme author will include the latest version of the bundled plugin in the next theme update. This allows you to update the bundled plugin easily when you update your theme.
What’s the difference between a bundled and a standalone plugin?
What's the difference between a bundled and a standalone plugin?
Some key differences exist between plugins purchased separately and those bundled with a theme.
Standalone Plugins (Purchased Separately):
- Come with their license.
- It can be used independently with any theme.
- Include a purchase code for activation, which removes the “Activation” message.
- It can be updated directly from CodeCanyon once a new version is released.
- Include 6 months of support from the plugin author, with the option to extend the support period.
Bundled Plugins (Included with a Theme):
- They can only be used under the same license as the theme they are bundled with (they cannot be extracted for use with other themes).
- Supported by the theme author under the Item Support for the theme during your support period.
- Updated when the theme is updated, including the latest plugin version.
Hint: Bundled plugins can add significant value and convenience to your theme purchase, saving you money and time. However, plan to use the plugin with another theme or independently or need the developer’s direct updates and support. It might be worth purchasing the plugin separately.
Bundled Plugin Compatibility
Plugins enhance a theme’s functionality, but Envato only guarantees compatibility with the plugin versions included in the bundled purchase.
Themes are designed to work with the specific plugin versions included in the bundle, and updating all components together is essential to avoid compatibility issues.
I Need to Update My Bundled Plugin
If you’ve received an alert about a plugin needing an update or it is no longer working correctly with your theme, it may be because it was recently updated.
If you didn’t purchase the plugin separately, the theme author will include the latest version of the bundled plugin in their next theme update.
Hint: Contact the theme author to determine when the bundled plugin will be updated.
I Need Support for My Bundled Plugin
If you have questions about a plugin bundled with your theme, contact the author for help. The seller’s (theme author) responsibility is to ensure that all included components are up-to-date and functioning correctly.
