What does the MINOR version mean?

The MINOR version is the second number in semantic versioning (SemVer), which is incremented when new functionality is added to the product without breaking backward compatibility.

Version format:

MAJOR.MINOR.PATCH

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#What incrementing MINOR means

Incrementing MINOR means:

"We added new capabilities, but old code keeps working."

That is:

• the API expanded but did not break
• the update is safe for users
• you can update without changing your own code

Example:

1.4.2 → 1.5.0

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#Examples of changes for MINOR

MINOR is incremented when:

• a new endpoint or method was added
• optional parameters were added
• functionality was extended
• new capabilities were added without touching existing ones

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#What MINOR does NOT mean

MINOR does not mean:

• a bug fix (that is PATCH)
• a change in the behavior of an existing API
• breaking changes

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#MINOR and PATCH together

After incrementing MINOR:

• PATCH resets to 0

Example:

1.4.7 → 1.5.0

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#MINOR in releases and CI/CD

• MINOR releases often come out regularly
• deployment is usually automatic
• release notes list the new features

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#Short answer for an interview

The MINOR version is incremented when new functionality is added without breaking backward compatibility, when the update is safe for existing users.