The reason behind the change, according to Mojang, is to accommodate the upcoming modding API, which otherwise would have required modders to create multiple versions of each mod, one for single-player and one for multiplayer. The downside is that single-player games will now require a little more computing power, though Mojang is hoping to smooth things out a bit in 1.4.
Other additions in 1.3 will include emeralds and emerald ore, the ability to buy items from villagers, the ability to write in books, an optional "bonus chest" that helps new players "get started quicker" and more. Minecraft 1.3 is slated to arrive August 1, with a "release candidate" available a week prior.
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Source: http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/minecraft-1-3-to-merge-single-and-multiplayer-coming-august-1/#comments
"Minecraft 1.3 to merge single and multiplayer" :: Login/Create an Account :: 88 comments