Adding images to sidebars in WordPress is a cumbersome task that requires users to upload an image to the Media Library, find the URL, copy it, and paste it into a Text widget along with additional HTML. Nearly two years ago, Mel Choyce opened a ticket on WordPress Trac proposing that a media widget be added to core. This widget would allow users to easily add images to sidebars. Throughout the discussion, the idea of creating a catch-all media widget was brought up that would allow users to add images, audio, or video to a sidebar. After developers spoke to Matt Mullenweg about the direction of the project, the team decided to create three separate widgets to handle each media type. Choyce outlined the benefits this approach provides:
We can focus on creating more tailored experiences for each widget.
We’ll be able to launch new widgets without having to worry about constantly updating one central widget, or potentially breaking anything.
It’ll be easier for people to discover new media types since they won’t be buried within one widget.
This will more closely mimic the approach we’re taking to content blocks in the future, which should provide an easier transition.
Source: https://managewp.org/articles/14696/adding-images-to-wordpress-sidebars-is-about-to-get-a-lot-easier
Willie Chiu's Blog 