Release Notes Template - Free Download & Example
Download our free release notes template. Includes changelog structure, change categorisation, breaking changes and upgrade instructions. Communicate releases clearly.
Release notes are the communication channel between your development team and users. This template provides a professional structure for documenting software changes per release, with clear categorisation into new features, improvements, bug fixes, security patches and breaking changes. It includes sections for version number, release date, upgrade instructions, known issues and migration steps. Good release notes build user trust, reduce support tickets and help with compliance audits that require an overview of all changes.
Variations
User-Facing Release Notes
Non-technical release notes aimed at end users focusing on new capabilities, improved workflows and resolved issues in plain language.
Best for: Suited for SaaS products, customer portals and B2C applications where users need to be informed without technical jargon.
Developer Changelog
Technical changelog in Keep a Changelog format with semver versioning, API changes, deprecation notices and code migration instructions.
Best for: Ideal for API platforms, open-source projects and developer tools where technical accuracy and migration information are essential.
Enterprise Release Bulletin
Formal release document for enterprise clients including impact assessment, downtime information, rollback options and approval history.
Best for: Perfect for B2B software with SLA obligations where clients must be informed and prepared for changes in advance.
How to use
Step 1: Download the release notes template and choose the variant that fits your audience. Step 2: Fill in the basic information: version number (follow semantic versioning), release date and a brief summary of the most important changes. Step 3: Categorise all changes under the correct headings: Added (new), Changed (modified), Fixed (resolved), Security (security updates) and Deprecated (phased out). Step 4: Highlight breaking changes prominently with clear migration instructions and code examples. Step 5: Describe known issues that have not yet been resolved and their impact on users. Step 6: Add upgrade instructions with exact steps users need to follow, including database migrations and configuration changes. Step 7: Have the release notes reviewed by product and support before publishing.
Frequently asked questions
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