X-Cart 4.4 has now been released with a host of changes including a desperately needed revamp of the admin section.  With the new release, we we're receiving many questions about whether or not you should upgrade now.  When considering an upgrade, you should be aware of the following:

1. There will undoubtedly be a series of patches released for bug and security fixes.  You will need to invest in the application of these patches to ensure you are up-to-date.
2. There may be bugs that you need to deal with until patches become available.
3. When x-cart releases the 4.4 database upgrader you can migrate your data, but all design changes, customizations, and modules will need to be reinstalled.
4. Many third-party x-cart modules are currently being developed for X-Cart 4.4 but aren't yet available.

Should you upgrade to x-cart 4.4?
I have a feeling that x-cart 4.4 will be a better received product than the proposed x-cart 5.0 which will likely be released in a year or so from now.  I suspect many x-cart users will upgrade and stay with x-cart 4.4 for a long period of time.  In my opinion, the answer to if you should upgrade to 4.4, is yes BUT not for 2-3 months.  In that time x-cart will stabilize, third party modules will become available, and you can take the time to plan and schedule your new site in the meantime.