WSJT-X Version 2: Expect Major Changes to FT8 and MSK 144

WSJT-X screen shot

An updated version of the WSJT-X suite of weak-signal digital protocols is expected to be released in January, and co-developer Joe Taylor, K1JT, told the ARRL Letter that major changes are being made to the popular FT8 and MSK144 modes. According to Taylor, the new version is likely to include built-in exchanges for ARRL Field Day and the RTTY Roundup, VHF contest support with grid exchanges, portable and rover callsigns, support for the new FT8 "DXpedition mode" and more. Taylor notes that the new version of WSJT-X will not be backward-compatible with previous versions and that users will need to download the new version in order to use the new features. He expects a beta-testing period to begin in the second half of this month, with a full version release expected "a couple of months later."