The Linux world was treated yesterday to the official release of Ubuntu 17.10, just as Canonical had scheduled. “Artful Aardvark” is the version that begins the transition to GNOME, modified in such a way that it doesn’t present major differences from Unity, and on compatible computers it will activate Wayland as the display server. We also find changes in the display manager, and essential updates for the main applications.
A return to GNOME
In early April we talked about the decision Canonical made to abandon the development of its Unity interface and return to GNOME. That decision includes the virtual retirement of Mir (which will now have priority in IoT projects) and other adjustments in the company’s medium-term strategy. The return to GNOME is expected to be completed with the release of LTS 18.04, but we can already enjoy a good preview thanks to build 17.10, Artful Aardvark. At first glance, the sensation in the new distro is that nothing changed, but what we’re seeing is a customized edition of GNOME 3.26 that imitates (to some extent) the most well-known features of Unity.
Wayland and other changes
Another very important fact is that the operating system will try to use the Wayland graphical server protocol whenever the hardware has the necessary support (the “Ubuntu on Xorg” option is available). We also see the replacement of LightDM by GDM, the adoption of Caribou as the on-screen keyboard, the return of window control buttons to the right side (this hasn’t happened since 2010), driverless printing support (compatible with IPP Everywhere, Apple AirPrint, Wi-Fi Direct and Mopria), a change in Rhythmbox’s interface, recurring calendar events, the integration of LibreOffice 5.4, and the new Logs section that replaces the previous System Log.
The end of 32-bit and Ubuntu GNOME
Ubuntu 17.10 marks the end of the distribution for 32-bit desktop images and the interruption of the Ubuntu GNOME variant, since it’s no longer necessary. As always, those users not interested in GNOME can download another Ubuntu flavor without problems, but most of the adjustments are in the flagship distro.
Official site and download:Official site and download:
