Ubuntu 24.10, codenamed Oracular Oriole, marks a significant milestone in the Linux world. This release celebrates 20 years since Ubuntu’s first version, Warty Warthog, debuted in October 2004. Ubuntu 24.10 introduces several enhancements, including GNOME 47, accent colors, and a new file manager, making it a noteworthy update for Linux enthusiasts.
The latest version brings a mix of nostalgia and innovation. It features special wallpapers and the original startup sound to commemorate Ubuntu’s journey. Ubuntu 24.10 also makes Wayland the default display server for NVIDIA graphics, improving compatibility and performance for many users.
Steam snap compatibility gets a boost in this release, catering to gamers who prefer Ubuntu. The addition of OpenVEX and OSV formats for vulnerability reporting enhances security measures. These updates reflect Ubuntu’s commitment to evolving with user needs while honoring its roots.
A Deep Dive into Ubuntu 24.10
Ubuntu 24.10, codenamed “Oracular Oriole,” marks a significant milestone as it celebrates Ubuntu’s 20th anniversary. This release is packed with exciting new features, performance enhancements, and a touch of nostalgia. Let’s take a closer look at what Ubuntu 24.10 has to offer.
GNOME 47: A Refreshing Desktop Experience
Ubuntu 24.10 features the latest GNOME 47 desktop environment, which brings a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. GNOME 47 boasts improved performance, smoother animations, and refined aesthetics. You’ll notice subtle changes throughout the desktop, making your workflow more efficient and enjoyable.
Linux Kernel 6.7: The Heart of the System
Under the hood, Ubuntu 24.10 is powered by the Linux 6.7 kernel. This updated kernel provides enhanced hardware support, ensuring compatibility with a wider range of devices. It also includes performance optimizations, leading to a faster and more responsive system.
Experimental Permissions Prompting: Enhanced Security and Privacy
One of the standout features of Ubuntu 24.10 is the introduction of experimental permissions prompting. This feature gives you more granular control over application permissions, allowing you to decide which apps can access sensitive data like your location or microphone. This adds an extra layer of security and privacy to your Ubuntu experience.
Celebrating 20 Years of Ubuntu
Ubuntu 24.10 is a special release, commemorating two decades of Ubuntu’s contributions to the open-source world. To mark this occasion, Ubuntu 24.10 includes several nostalgic touches. You’ll find a new anniversary logo on the boot splash and login screen, a “Warty” brown accent color option (a tribute to the first Ubuntu release), and the option to play the original Ubuntu 4.10 startup sound on login.
Updated Applications: The Latest and Greatest
As always, Ubuntu 24.10 ships with the latest versions of popular applications. You’ll find Firefox for web browsing, Thunderbird for email, and LibreOffice for productivity tasks. These updated applications bring new features, improved performance, and enhanced security.
Improved Installer: Smoother Installation Experience
The Ubuntu installer has been refined in Ubuntu 24.10, making the installation process even smoother and more user-friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned Linux user or new to the operating system, you’ll find the installation process straightforward and intuitive.
PipeWire by Default: Enhanced Audio Handling
Ubuntu 24.10 switches to PipeWire as the default audio server. PipeWire offers better handling of audio streams, improved Bluetooth support, and enhanced compatibility with various audio devices. This change ensures a seamless and high-quality audio experience.
New Default Wallpaper: A Stylized Oriole
Ubuntu 24.10 features a new default wallpaper showcasing a stylized image of an oriole bird. The wallpaper is visually appealing and complements the overall aesthetics of the operating system.
Performance Improvements: A Faster and More Responsive System
Various performance optimizations have been implemented throughout Ubuntu 24.10. These optimizations result in a faster and more responsive system, making your daily tasks smoother and more efficient.
A Glimpse into the Future: Ubuntu’s Roadmap
Ubuntu 24.10 is a non-LTS release, meaning it will be supported for nine months. However, it provides a glimpse into the future of Ubuntu and its commitment to innovation and user experience. The next LTS release, Ubuntu 26.04, is expected in April 2026 and will likely incorporate many of the features and improvements introduced in Ubuntu 24.10.
Key Features of Ubuntu 24.10 at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Desktop Environment | GNOME 47 |
| Kernel | Linux 6.7 |
| Permissions Prompting | Experimental |
| 20th Anniversary Celebration | Special logo, accent color, startup sound |
| Applications | Updated versions of Firefox, Thunderbird, LibreOffice |
| Installer | Improved user experience |
| Audio Server | PipeWire |
| Default Wallpaper | Stylized oriole image |
| Performance | Optimized for speed and responsiveness |
| Support | 9 months |
Key Takeaways
- Ubuntu 24.10 celebrates 20 years with nostalgic elements and new features
- GNOME 47, accent colors, and a new file manager enhance the user experience
- Improved gaming support and security measures are key focus areas
Ubuntu 24.10 Overview and Enhancements
Ubuntu 24.10, codenamed “Oracular Oriole,” brings updates to the Linux kernel, desktop environment, and system tools. This release marks 20 years of Ubuntu and includes performance improvements and new features.
Desktop Environment and User Interface
GNOME 47 powers the Ubuntu 24.10 desktop. It offers a refreshed look with new accent colors. Users can personalize their desktop appearance more easily. The Ubuntu Dock gets minor tweaks for better usability.
Anniversary wallpapers celebrate Ubuntu’s 20-year history. These images showcase the evolution of Ubuntu’s visual identity. The default desktop image is updated to reflect the “Oracular Oriole” theme.
The system settings app has a cleaner layout. It’s now easier to find and change important options. The login screen also gets a visual update to match the new desktop style.
Performance and Hardware Support
Linux kernel 6.11 forms the core of Ubuntu 24.10. It brings better support for new hardware. AMD and Intel GPU drivers see significant improvements. This means smoother graphics performance for many users.
Wayland continues to be the default display server. It offers better security and smoother animations than X11. NVIDIA graphics cards now work better with Wayland.
Ubuntu 24.10 runs well on a wide range of devices. It supports the latest Raspberry Pi models and many ARM64 devices. Performance on laptops is improved, with better power management.
Security and Software Updates
The new Security Center app debuts in Ubuntu 24.10. It gives users an overview of their system’s security status. The app makes it easier to manage updates and security settings.
OpenSSL 3.3 is included, providing the latest encryption standards. This keeps internet connections secure and private. The system comes with the newest security patches pre-installed.
Automatic updates are more reliable. They ensure that security fixes reach users quickly. The update process itself is faster and uses less bandwidth than before.
Application Management and System Tools
APT 3.0 is the new package manager in Ubuntu 24.10. It’s faster and more efficient at installing and updating software. The Snap system for app management is also improved.
The Software Center gets a new look. It’s easier to find and install apps. Users can now see more details about each app before installing.
File manager improvements make organizing files simpler. New sorting options and better search functions are added. The terminal app gets performance upgrades for power users.
Platform Development and Support Tools
Ubuntu 24.10 includes updated development tools. GCC 14.2 and LLVM 19 provide the latest compiler technologies. Rust 1.80 is available for systems programming.
The toolchain is optimized for faster build times. This helps developers work more efficiently. New debugging tools make it easier to find and fix software issues.
Kdump-tools are added to capture kernel crash dumps. This helps in troubleshooting system problems. Systemd 256.5 improves system boot and service management.
