Understanding Release Candidate Connector Versions (-rc)

What Are Release Candidates (-rc)?

Airbyte Cloud is continuously evolving, and part of that evolution includes releasing new versions of our connectors to offer new features, improve performance, or stay up-to-date with Third Party APIs. To make sure we’re delivering the best experience while minimizing risk, we use a progressive rollout model for new connector versions.

This means that before a new connector version is fully released, it first goes through a release candidate (-rc) phase. This version is deployed to a small percentage of users, allowing us to monitor its performance and catch any unexpected issues before making it the default for everyone. Only after we confirm the new version is stable do we promote it to "latest."

Why Does This Matter to You?

If you see that your Airbyte connector is running a -rc version, you might wonder why. Here’s what you need to know:

• Thorough Testing: Every -rc version goes through the same rigorous testing as any standard release. It is not a “beta” or untested version.

• Minimized Impact: Instead of rolling out changes to every Airbyte Cloud user at once, we introduce updates gradually. This limits potential issues to a small group of users rather than affecting all customers at the same time.

• Proactive Issue Detection: If an issue arises in an -rc version, we can address it before it reaches a wider audience. Without this progressive rollout model, the same bug would have existed in a full release—just impacting more users at once.

What If I Experience an Issue on a -rc Version?

We understand that encountering issues with a connector can be frustrating. If you’re using a -rc version and something isn’t working as expected, please reach out to our support team. Your feedback is essential in ensuring a smooth experience for everyone.

Remember: the progressive rollout model is in place to protect you and the broader Airbyte community from widespread disruptions. It allows us to catch potential issues early and deliver a more reliable platform for everyone.