Xfce 4.20 Linux desktop environment gets lit with experimental Wayland support and new features
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.
Switch to Linux Lite 7.0 from Windows 11
After over a decade of evolution and adaptation, Linux Lite 7.0 RC1 arrives (download here) with the promise of a mature, secure, and highly customizable operating system, poised as an ideal alternative for those considering a switch from Microsoft Windows 11. With the stable version, codenamed Galena, set for release on June 1, 2024, now is the perfect time to explore what Linux Lite offers.
The new version introduces significant changes and enhancements. Among these is the updated Thunar 4.18.8 file manager which now includes a handy Split View feature, allowing for more efficient file handling and multitasking. Visual tweaks are evident with new installation slides that not only streamline the setup process but also enhance user engagement.
Manjaro Linux 23.0 'Uranos' is here with GNOME, Plasma, and XFCE editions
The developers of Manjaro have delivered version 23.0 of the operating system, and this time, it's code-named “Uranos.” Following the lauded release of Talos in April 2023, the developers at Manjaro haven't taken a moment's rest. Whether you're in the GNOME, Plasma, or XFCE camp, there’s a lot to unwrap, so let's dive in.
First on our list is the GNOME edition, which has been tuned to the melodious notes of the GNOME 44 series, a release that originally made its debut back in March. The point releases from 44.1 to 44.4 have each added their own layer of polish and precision, and for those interested in the details, the release notes are your go-to source.