Downloads by Version

[Lamthombeni]

Summary

Improve the Downloads page by adding version-based download sections and filters to make it easier for users to find the correct PHP build quickly.

Details

Proposed Improvement
-Add a dedicated “Downloads by Version” section at the top of the page, with clear tabs or dropdown filters such as:
-PHP Version (e.g., 8.4, 8.3, 8.2, 8.1, 8.0)
-Operating System (Windows, Linux, macOS)
-Architecture (x64, x86, ARM)
-Build Type (Thread Safe, Non-Thread Safe)

How it should work
-User selects their PHP version and platform
-The page automatically shows the correct download options
-Each option should include a short explanation and a recommended default choice for most users

Benefits
-Faster navigation and fewer wrong downloads
-Better experience for new users
-Less reliance on external documentation
-Cleaner and more modern downloads flow

Additional context

Many modern developer platforms (Node.js, Python, Flutter) provide version-based downloads with clear recommendations, which helps users find what they need without confusion. Adding similar filters and version grouping would make the PHP downloads page more user-friendly.

[Lamthombeni]

Many modern developer platforms (Node.js, Python, Flutter) provide version-based downloads with clear recommendations, which helps users find what they need without confusion. Adding similar filters and version grouping would make the PHP downloads page more user-friendly.

[Lamthombeni]

I think this improvement would reduce confusion for new users and make the Downloads page much faster to use. A version + OS filter with a **recommended download** option would help users avoid downloading the wrong build and improve the overall experience.