After debates we decided that the new OpenWack will require PHP mbstring extension.

The problem is that mbstring is not widely supported by hosting providers. A lot of software packages _recommend_ having mbstring and in case of its absense create various semi-correct wrappers for string functions emulating multi-byte support. This is not the thing we want to do, so looks like we have no other option than including mbstring into hosting requirements.

We think that it is critical for PHP string functions to work properly that is why you will need to find a hosting provider that supports mbstring. You can always check our hosting recommendations.