Changelog: add a changelog entry for hidden env vars

src/changelog/2025/01/hidden-env-vars.md

@@ -0,0 +1,28 @@
+---
+title: Hidden Environment Variables
+summary: Users can now hide environment variable values in the UI when creating or editing them.
+date: 2025-01-21 14:00:00.0
+authors: ["serban-costin"]
+tags:
+  - changelog
+---
+
+We’ve expanded the functionality of managing Node-RED environment variables by introducing the ability to hide their values in the UI.
+
+### What’s new?
+This feature is supported by both hosted and remote Node-RED instances.
+- Users can now designate values as 'hidden' when creating or editing them.
+- Hidden values are concealed in the UI for enhanced privacy and security.
+- Once marked as hidden and saved:
+    - the **name** cannot be changed.
+    - the value can only be updated - its existing value cannot be seen.
+- To make a value visible again, users must delete the entry and recreate it as a visible one.
+
+This feature enhances security and allows for more control over sensitive configuration data, ensuring better management in your Node-RED workflows.
+
+![Screenshot of the new hidden environment variables feature - Hosted Instances](./images/hidden-env-var-instances.png){data-zoomable}
+_Screenshot of the new hidden environment variables feature - Hosted Instances_
+
+![Screenshot of the new hidden environment variables feature - Remote Instances](./images/hidden-env-var-devices.png){data-zoomable}
+_Screenshot of the new hidden environment variables feature - Remote Instances_
+