diff --git a/HISTORY.rst b/HISTORY.rst
index 6e262cd8..f66848c2 100644
--- a/HISTORY.rst
+++ b/HISTORY.rst
@@ -19,6 +19,9 @@ Unlock the true potential of embedded software development with
 PlatformIO's collaborative ecosystem, embracing declarative principles,
 test-driven methodologies, and modern toolchains for unrivaled success.
 
+6.1.19 (2025-??-??)
+~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
+
 6.1.18 (2025-03-11)
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
diff --git a/platformio/__init__.py b/platformio/__init__.py
index 9db62a0d..549d7b39 100644
--- a/platformio/__init__.py
+++ b/platformio/__init__.py
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@
 # See the License for the specific language governing permissions and
 # limitations under the License.
 
-VERSION = (6, 1, 18)
+VERSION = (6, 1, "19a1")
 __version__ = ".".join([str(s) for s in VERSION])
 
 __title__ = "platformio"