Linux has come a long way. Linux is arguably the third most popular operating system in existence. Linus Torvalds, the main creator of the first Linux operating system, probably never imagined his computer code would go so far in the world. Seldom do we actually install an operating system that contains only Linux — Linux itself is a kernel and does not do much else. Distributions of Linux allow for a desktop user interface and other programs making the desktop experience functional. Of all the distributions, Ubuntu has probably made the most progress for being user friendly and up-to-date.
Despite the fact that I no longer want to primarily belong to the world of technology, I still enjoy trying out new software before most other people. Ubuntu 11.04 beta has finally reached a point in stability that it can manage as a primary desktop without too much trouble. When I first started reading about the beta, I learned that Ubuntu would no longer have a Gnome desktop, but would be replaced by a new desktop interface called Unity that is quite unlike anything I had ever used before. Unity is probably the biggest new feature of Ubuntu 11.04. I was quite skeptical, but I held my judgmental tongue and gave it a try. It is quite neat! I am surprised at what a new experience it has brought to my desktop.
The program manager has been completely revamped. Instead of a traditional taskbar, as we see in an operating system like Windows XP, all running programs have been replaced with their icons on a dock.
Applications are easy to find with a new search feature. Should you want to run an
Applications Menu
application, simply press the Super/Windows key and type the first few letters of the name of the program. Almost instantly will appear the program which you can then run.
All programs open up in a “full screen” mode that saves much needed desktop space.
Applications run in full screen
Before, desktop space was wasted with a system tray with application menu, and a separate taskbar. Now there is only a system tray. Even the program buttons and menus disappear, until you hover over the titlebar where they are revealed again. If you use word processors as much as I do, this makes a huge difference.
All in all, I think Ubuntu 11.04 will be a success, so long as users are willing to embrace a new look and feel in exchange for what they know as a traditional desktop.
I plan to upload a video of Ubuntu 11.04 BETA II dekstop usage in the next week, check back then for more.
Desktop Switcher
