The next big release is here! Let’s take a look at what is Ubuntu and why this release is important for the community as a whole.
What is Ubuntu?
So, what’s Ubuntu? Ubuntu is a popular Linux distribution composed mainly of free and open-source components. This distribution was developed by Canonical in 2004. It has three editions, such as Server, Desktop, and Core, for IoT devices and robotics. All the editions are suitable for virtual machines and computers. Ubuntu Server is one of the leaders in server infrastructure and cloud computing and it provides excellent support for OpenStack, Docker, Kubernetes, and much more.
When it comes to servers, Ubuntu gives three options to select from including; instant Ubuntu VMs, manual server installation, automated server provisioning. It also has a Multipass, a lightweight VM manager available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. More than 40% of web server OSes are running on Linux. And Ubuntu powers almost 50% of these Linux-based web servers.
Why are LTS Releases a Big Deal?
LTS is a software product policy in which a stable version is maintained for a longer time period than its standard edition. Various open-source products, including Ubuntu, produce LTS releases.
Now, support means updates for potential bugs and other security issues, the support by Landscape, Canonical’s enterprise-grade server management tools, and the availability of Canonical’s commercial support contracts. Ubuntu’s LTS releases are a big deal because you can rely on them as they are regularly updated, secure, and stable. Also, the development effort for LTS releases is focused on offering a rock-solid base. Since many Linux distributions base themselves on Ubuntu, an LTS release usually snow balls with many other distributions receiving critical updates and feature additions or improvements. These distributions include official flavors like Kubuntu, Xubuntu, Lubuntu, and Ubuntu Budgie. This also often means big changes with fan favorites such as Pop!_OS and Linux Mint.
Big Changes in Ubuntu 22.04 “Jammy Jellyfish”
OFFICIAL RELEASE NOTES: https://discourse.ubuntu.com/t/jammy-jellyfish-release-notes/24668
There isn’t really any huge game changing features released by Canonical themselves, but there are some welcomed changes to the system as a whole.
GNOME Shell 42
Even though Ubuntu will be shipping with GNOME 42 we will be seeing a majority of GNOME 40/41 as the Ubuntu team felt like there would not be enough time for testing. I’d assume the next version of Ubuntu 22.10 will feature a more complete GNOME 42 integration. With this most of the applications are getting updates including the latest version of the Nautilus file manager.
New Settings Options
New ‘Privacy’ panel and the addition of some new some multitasking option. And of there is much better customization options within the settings. You now have better control of Ubuntu Dock options in Settings and system wide accent colors.
Screenshot Tool
The improved screenshot utility makes it easy to take full-screen snaps, screenshot a specific area using the drag handles, or snipping a specific app window. Just hit your PrtScr button to see the new interface.
New Branding
New branding was an interesting decision to say the least. It looks like they’re trying to incorporate the new logo in places it does not fit, but we will see soon enough.
What will not be included?
There are a few features that won’t make the cut for these release that we were expecting. This will include the new installer written with Google Flutter and the Ubuntu Pro notifications.
New Installer
This installer has been in the works for some time, but it still has some ways to go so it will not be included in the LTS release.
Ubuntu Pro Notification
When you first install Ubuntu you may get a notification to try out Ubuntu Pro and you can subscribe to Ubuntu Pro from the software updater application.
What is Ubuntu Pro?
Ubuntu Pro is an extension of Ubuntu’s premium support. Canonical rolled out Ubuntu’s Pro on AWS in 2019. It covers non-AWS platforms also. In 2020, Canonical launched it for security and compliance purposes for Azure and AWS. Ubuntu Pro is available for on-premises software through a beta program. This program allows Ubuntu users to enjoy a free, one-month subscription to the Ubuntu Pro.
On-prem software relates to research, business, and critical software stacks used for private properties. Also, those who use technologies including Kubernetes, OpenStack, MAAS, KVM/LXD, or workloads involving MongoDB, Node.js, Apache Kafka, etc., may be interested in taking part in Pro’s beta program.
