14 DAY TRIAL // The first alpha version of the upcoming Ubuntu 8.10 (codename Intrepid Ibex), which is scheduled for release in late October this year, was announced a few days ago. Even if there aren't big changes compared to the final version of Ubuntu 8.04 LTS, released on April 24th, 2008, the Alpha 1 of Intrepid brings a brand new theme, completely redesigned, which in time will become what everyone was expecting. Among the new features, we could notice a brand new 2.6.26 Linux kernel, GNOME 2.23.4, Mozilla Firefox 3.0 Final, OpenOffice.org 2.4.1, The GIMP 2.4.6 and Pidgin 2.4.2.
For the Intrepid Ibex, the development team will prepare an unbelievable desktop, with amazing performance, that will work on mostly any computer (be it a high-end workstation or an old and dusty Pentium III machine). Another major feature planned for Ubuntu 8.10 is the ability to stay connected to the Internet (wireless connections) wherever you go: "We want you to be able to move from the office, to the train, and home, staying connected all the way." - said Mark Shuttleworth.
Without any further introduction, here is the screenshot tour of this first alpha version of Ubuntu 8.10:
As you see from the above screenshots, the wallpaper is from the Hardy Heron edition, but the new theme is completely different than the one you were used to. I must admit that even if it's too dark for my taste, the new theme feels really good and smooth, especially when you navigate through the menus! Let's have a look now at the release schedule for Intrepid Ibex:
June 27th, 2008 - Alpha 1 release
July 10th, 2008 - Alpha 2 release
July 24th, 2008 - Alpha 3 release
August 14th, 2008 - Alpha 4 release
September 4th, 2008 - Alpha 5 release
September 18th, 2008 - Alpha 6 release
October 2nd, 2008 - Beta release
October 23rd, 2008 - Release Candidate
October 30th, 2008 - Final release of Ubuntu 8.10.
About Ubuntu:
Ubuntu is a Linux distribution for your desktop or server, with a fast and easy install, regular releases, a tight selection of excellent packages installed by default, every other package you can imagine available, network and professional technical support from Canonical Ltd and hundreds of other companies in the world.
Remember that this is a beta release and it should NOT be installed on production machines. It is intended to be used for testing purposes only. Please report bugs to the Ubuntu Bug Tracker
Download Ubuntu 8.10 (Intrepid Ibex) Alpha 1 right now from Softpedia.
Download Kubuntu 8.10 (Intrepid Ibex) Alpha 1 right now from Softpedia.
Download Xubuntu 8.10 (Intrepid Ibex) Alpha 1 right now from Softpedia.