The GNOME Project has announced the release of version 44 of its flagship Linux desktop. The new version includes tweaked settings and enhanced apps.
GNOME 44 Result of Six Months of “Hard Work”
The latest version, codenamed “Kuala Lumpur,” comes six months after what the official release notes described as “hard work.”
By bumping up the version number, the developers stressed that GNOME 44 includes some major changes.
The developers also took to Twitter to announce the new version:
What’s New in GNOME 44?
GNOME 44 boasts a thumbnail grid preview option in the Files app. This is something that has been standard on Windows and macOS for years. The developers said that this had been a top request from users, so the change will likely be welcome.
The GNOME developers have released a video showing GNOME 44 in action:
The Settings app has also been given a revamp. The Device Security menu, similar to Tutorar in Windows, has also been overhauled to give more information. There are also new accessibility options, such as boosting audio levels, adjusting typing methods, previewing cursor blinking options, and keeping scrollbars visible.
Users can also change sound settings and view missing audio devices more easily as well.
The quick settings menu, which made its debut in the previous version, now shows Bluetooth settings.
The Software app has also been tweaked. Flatpak runtime packages are now deleted to save space.
When Will Users Get GNOME 44?
Despite GNOME 44 being the default of several major Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora, which are all listed on the GNOME website, users may have to wait to experience the new version. This will depend on how quickly distribution developers integrate it into their systems.
Debian tends to conservatism in its stable version, while Arch will often make new versions available almost immediately. Other distros will fall in between the two extremes. This reflects the decentralized nature of Linux distros compared to macOS or Windows. Linux distros make their own decisions about what to include.
GNOME 44 Rolls On
GNOME 44 is the latest version of what’s proven to be a resilient desktop on Linux systems. GNOME’s feature set has made so many Linux users loyal to it.
