Articles about Linux desktop environment

The Xfce team has officially dropped version 4.20 after nearly two years of development, bringing a host of updates and experimental Wayland support to the popular lightweight desktop environment. It’s clear a lot of work went into this release, but the version number might also make you wonder -- did the developers celebrate a little too hard when naming it?

One of the headline features is experimental support for Wayland. Thanks to the new “libxfce4windowing” library, many Xfce components can now run natively on Wayland without relying on XWayland. However, this feature is far from perfect. Critical elements like workspace support and components such as Xfwm4 and Xfce4-screensaver still lack full Wayland functionality. If you’re feeling adventurous -- or maybe a bit “chill” -- you can give Wayland a try, but the team advises caution. Bugs and missing features are part of the deal for now.

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While Microsoft’s newest operating system continues to frustrate users with its limitations and updates, Ubuntu has been quietly improving. The latest release, Ubuntu 24.10 “Oracular Oriole”, is the best version yet, giving users a new Linux alternative to Windows 11 that combines cutting-edge technology with enhanced security features. Ubuntu 24.10 (download here), brings the latest Linux kernel, GNOME 47 desktop environment, and improved security tools, making it a serious contender for those considering a shift away from Microsoft’s ecosystem.

This release includes Linux kernel 6.11, which supports the latest hardware and allows for smoother integration with future updates. By adopting this newer kernel, Canonical aims to stay ahead in supporting a wide range of hardware configurations, ensuring compatibility and performance for both desktop and server users. For those running systems on Dell’s Ubuntu-powered PCs, the move promises quicker updates and better support, which is especially beneficial for enterprise deployments.

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As Windows 11 continues to evolve, many users find themselves grappling with its system demands and privacy concerns. However, the release of Linux Lite 7.0, codenamed "Galena," offers a tempting alternative that champions both maturity and ease of use. With 12 years of development under its belt, Linux Lite has incorporated numerous user-suggested features while enhancing its robust and secure base.

Why Switch to Linux Lite 7.0 from Windows 11?

1. Simplicity and Maturity: Linux Lite 7.0 has been designed for stability and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for those who want an operating system that just works. It's an ideal match for users looking to escape the frequently changing landscapes of Windows.

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The GNOME project has announced the release of GNOME 46, codenamed “Kathmandu.” This latest version of the Linux desktop environment brings a host of enhancements and new features. There are even five new apps: Letterpress, Switcheroo, Decibels, Fretboard, and Railway.

The Files app has received significant updates, including improved feedback for long-running file operations, a dynamic progress section, and instant switching between list and grid views. Other improvements include searchable preferences, detailed date and time display, quick access to the location entry, and better network discovery.

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The KDE community has announced the release of its latest “MegaRelease 6,” which includes Plasma 6, Frameworks 6, and Gear 24.02. This update brings a host of new features, improvements, and enhancements to the KDE ecosystem. With its sleek and modern design, Plasma 6 not only surpasses the user interface of Microsoft Windows 11 but also elevates the overall computing experience.

The Plasma 6 desktop environment has undergone significant upgrades with a transition to the latest version of the Qt application framework and a migration to the Wayland graphics platform. These changes aim to improve security, efficiency, and performance while ensuring a smooth and familiar user experience. Plasma 6 also introduces a new Overview Effect, combining the Overview and Desktop Grid effects, and adds partial support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) on Wayland. Users can now enjoy richer colors, individual ICC profile settings, and color blindness correction filters.

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The highly anticipated third beta version of Deepin V23 has finally been released. This pre-release variant of the Chinese-made Linux distribution is much more than just an incremental update; it introduces a comprehensive upgrade with over 1,400 package enhancements pre-installed and an additional 250+ system updates.

Deepin V23 Beta 3 isn't just about fixing bugs and enhancing performance. It shows the developers' commitment to providing a beautiful and user-friendly operating system. The release comes packed with new features and improvements that cater to a wide range of user needs. From system and installation enhancements such as added explanatory text on the Grub page, support for multiple screen resolutions, and driver support for i386 devices, to significant updates in system repositories with 4000+ software package updates, the upgrade is substantial.

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In a significant update for Linux enthusiasts, Budgie Desktop has today unveiled its latest iteration, Budgie 10.9, marking a new series with notable enhancements and forward-looking architectural changes. This new release gets a redesigned Bluetooth applet, initial steps towards Wayland compatibility, and the adoption of budgie-session for refined session management.

The Bluetooth applet in Budgie 10.9 has undergone a comprehensive redesign, now offering direct connectivity options for paired Bluetooth devices, including the ability to send files seamlessly. Users can also monitor battery life indicators, a feature that adds a layer of convenience to the desktop experience. This redesign signifies a departure from the gnome-bluetooth library, with Budgie now directly interfacing with BlueZ and UPower over D-Bus. This strategic move not only enhances Bluetooth functionalities but also simplifies maintenance and potentially allows certain Linux distributions to eliminate the older gnome-bluetooth from their repositories.

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Linux Mint, the very popular Linux distribution, has just released its latest version, 21.3, codenamed "Virginia." Linux Mint 21.3 runs on a Linux kernel 5.15 and is based on Ubuntu 22.04.

This long-term support release promises updates until 2027, featuring a ton of enhancements and new functionalities aimed at providing a more comfortable desktop experience. While Xfce and MATE desktop environments are available options, Cinnamon is clearly the star of the show.

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The latest version of Enlightenment, 0.26.0, has arrived, bringing a slew of improvements and new features to this popular Linux desktop environment. This release emphasizes on squashing numerous minor bugs, enhancing user experience, and introducing some experimental features.

A key highlight of this update is the extensive list of minor bug fixes, which can be viewed in the detailed git log. Developers have focused on ensuring a more stable and reliable experience for users, addressing various glitches and issues reported in previous versions.

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