Already 10-15 years ago, I suggested to Puybaret to split the Preferences section into two: Standard and Advanced. These days, I still think that's a good idea, and maybe even more so than all those years ago.

I agree with that. After all the added features in the past years a split in Standard and Advanced seems like a very good idea.

I agree that some plugins should be integrated into the program (provided he original developers agree). I can't live without AdvancedEDit and a few others.

Yes, especially the AdvancedEdit plugin because that is all functionality that should be part of the base program.

I have an immense admiration for what Puybaret has achieved these past 15 years, and I hope SpaceMushrooms continues on that path.

Indeed, he created a piece of software that has grown from a study case for his book on Swing to great software with millions of users. Certainly an immense achievement and I too hope that Space Mushrooms continues on the set path.