The wait is over! Canonical has unleashed Ubuntu Desktop 24.04 LTS, codenamed “Noble Numbat,” marking 20 years of innovation in the Linux world.
This release promises a significant leap forward, offering a blend of performance enhancements, security improvements, and user-friendly features designed to empower developers and casual users alike.
Let’s delve into the exciting new world of Noble Numbat and explore what sets it apart from its predecessors.
Ubuntu Noble Numbat Performance Powerhouse:
- Kernel Boost: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS boasts the brand new Linux kernel 6.8, bringing a performance overhaul to the core of the system. Expect smoother application responsiveness, enhanced hardware compatibility, and optimized power management.
- GNOME Upgrade: The desktop environment receives a refresh with GNOME 46. This translates to improvements in file manager search and performance, easier access to consolidated settings, and expandable notifications for better multitasking.
- Triple Buffering Magic: For users with Intel and Raspberry Pi graphics drivers, a new feature called triple buffering delivers a noticeable boost in graphical performance. Animations and transitions will feel noticeably smoother, enhancing the overall user experience.
Security Fortified:
- Extended LTS Support: Canonical extends its commitment to long-term support. Noble Numbat offers a staggering 12 years of security updates for the main Ubuntu repository, ensuring your system remains protected for over a decade. This extended support makes it an ideal choice for businesses and mission-critical deployments.
- Enhanced Security Features: While details haven’t been fully disclosed yet, Canonical promises advancements in the realm of security. We can expect to see improved intrusion detection, vulnerability patching, and overall system hardening to combat the ever-evolving threat landscape.
In Ubuntu 23.10, a new version of software-properties was released, which brought significant changes to the way Personal Package Archives (PPAs) are managed on Ubuntu.
PPAs are a useful tool for Ubuntu users to install software outside of official archives. This allows software freedom but comes with security risks due to OS access granted.
In Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, PPAs are distributed as deb822-formatted sources files with their signing key embedded in the file’s signed-by field.
Usability Refinements:
- Tiling Assistant: For power users and those who crave a more organized workspace, the addition of the Tiling Assistant extension is a welcome feature. This allows for effortless quarter-screen tiling, perfect for efficient multitasking and managing multiple windows simultaneously.
- Color Customization: Spice up your desktop with the new color picker. Noble Numbat empowers you to personalize your desktop environment by tweaking highlight colors to match your taste, creating a more visually appealing and engaging user experience.
Beyond the Basics:
- Focus on Open Source: Ubuntu remains firmly rooted in its open-source philosophy. Noble Numbat incorporates the latest advancements from the broader Linux ecosystem, ensuring you have access to a vast array of free and open-source software options.
- Developer Delight: With its focus on performance, stability, and a rich developer ecosystem, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS continues to be a top choice for programmers.
Whether you’re building web applications, crafting AI models, or delving into machine learning, Noble Numbat provides a robust platform to fuel your creativity.
A compelling Upgrade:
Whether you’re a seasoned Ubuntu user or a curious newcomer to the Linux world, Ubuntu Desktop 24.04 LTS offers a compelling reason to upgrade or take the plunge. With its focus on performance, security, and user experience, Noble Numbat presents a strong contender in the Linux desktop arena. So, why not explore the world of the Ubuntu Noble Numbat and discover the power and flexibility that Ubuntu has to offer?
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