Ubuntu 9.04 includes the latest 2.6.28.8 kernel as well as many other features

Ubuntu sponsors, Canonical , announced the release of Ubuntu 9.04 destop version that can be downloaded for free now!

Ubuntu is an open source operating system with the intention of supplying an up-to-date, stable operating system for the normal computer user. In addition to stablility Ubuntu try to target ease of use and installation. Ubuntu can be used on almost anything including Desktops, Business PC’s, Notebooks and many others that are able to support x86 CPU or ARM CPUs, this has only been adapted in the 9.04 version.

One standard, but remarkable (because it outdoes Vista) feature of Ubuntu is the Compiz Fusion 3D desktop, which has enables some really cool effects. Of course, for this feature to function you need a 3D accelerated graphics card.

In terms of ease of use, Ubuntu outshines Vista without a doubt. But it is arguably limited when it comes to software. Most applications written for Windows have not been ported with Linux, and therefore you may not be able to get your favourite programs running on Ubuntu. However, I don’t think this is much of a problem, as there is a whole world of open source out there, which sometimes provide even better functionality.

An ideal alternative is VMware. They have created a server version of their software which is free. It essentially allows you to run multiple operating systems at the same time, by creating a virtual machine. So, you could have Vista and Ubuntu running at the same time, which can improve efficiency greatly, if you have to use both OS’.

Canonical Jane Silber who is chief operating officer quoted,

“With every release, we see Ubuntu Desktop Edition make significant steps forward in appealing to mainstream computer users. With access to the latest office productivity suite, support for Skype and Adobe Flash, and faster boot times, we’re confident that Ubuntu 9.04 Desktop Edition will see more people join millions of others and make the switch to an open platform.”

Product Features- Ubuntu 9.04 includes the latest 2.6.28.8 kernel, and a multitude of features. Here is a taste:

• OpenOffice 3.0
• Latest Skype
• Latest Adobe Flash
• Faster boot times
• Gnome 2.26
• Brasero 2.26 (all-in-one CD burning application)
• More intuitive multi-monitor support
• X.Org server 1.6
• More uniform notifications and system messages
• Ext4 file system support
• A Netbook Remix version, which offers:
  • Even faster boot speeds
  • Enhanced power management
  • Easier network switching
• A Server Edition

Get the full technical overview here

Read Canonical’s press release on Ubuntu 9.04 here

You can download Ubuntu here.

Our Opinion

Pros

- Includes OpenOffice 3.0, which has been vastly improved

 - Can read/write to all Windows hard drive formats

- Easy to use and install

- Vastly improved boot times

- Evolution PIM and mail client now features even better Microsoft compatibility

- Variety of Versions

- Trouble free operations

- Ubuntu’s notorious ‘wiry fonts’ have been changed- now the font makes for more solid glyphs

- Significant server platform developments

Cons

- Not enough new features

- Lack of Game support

- Program on the System –> Preferences menu which was supposed to allow control over the notifications is not included in the final release for unknown reasons

Conclusion

To be honest, this is probably the least ground-breaking release of Ubuntu so far. There just aren’t enough new features. The netbook remix of Ubuntu 9.04, however, offers significant improvements over previous releases, and is worth a try if you use a netbook. Having said all this, Ubuntu is still miles ahead of any other desktop version of Linux, and this release does have some significant server platform developments. Personally, I think Ubuntu is on the same level as Windows and OS X. We’ll just have to wait and see where Ubuntu goes from now on.

Ubuntu 9.04 Screenshots

Better colour scheme, font and overall interface for the desktop

So much cleaner and more efficient than Vista...

Installation page finally allowed to go full screen!