In my experience and opinion, Francis was merely opening the door to regularize (as much as unique situations can be) practices that have been occurring privately for at least 50+ years.  The entire annulment process for years consisted of a wink, a nod and a fat sum of money to nullify a union that, in truth, HAD been a real marriage until it was broken down by one or both parties.  It became normative to claim "not a REAL marriage to begin with" and bureaucracy was eased, but the wink and nod remained. Many confessors and pastors have similarly winked and nodded for divorced/remarried couples in the spirit of mercy, understanding and often the existence of a new family setting.  This isn't new, it is merely out in the open and subject to more "official" discernment.  In the end, the couple alone will stand before the all-merciful, all-loving God, Who likely winks and nods at the RCC's pride, hubris and Law-bound cruelty.