The latest release, Ubuntu Budgie 24.10, has just hit the scene and brings with it an impressive nine months of support. This version is primarily aimed at enhancing the Budgie desktop experience while laying the groundwork for a future transition to Wayland, a modern display server protocol set to replace the traditional X11.
Interestingly, while the launch of Ubuntu 24.10 was just yesterday, Ubuntu Budgie enthusiasts got a preview on October 7th. Dubbed “Oracular Oriole,” this variant is classified as a Standard Release, ensuring users receive nine months of steadfast support from Canonical as well as the community of distro maintainers. Although a Wayland-based version is already being tested internally, currently, 24.10 focuses on polishing the Budgie desktop environment.
Key updates in Ubuntu Budgie 24.10 include a range of improvements and changes. There are enhanced translations for applets and mini-apps, and the budgie-sysmonitor-applet has been upgraded with new sensors and features in version 0.10.2. The Budgie desktop itself is now at version 10.9.2, boasting various fixes and better handling of Terminal-based applications. A significant change is the swap of Tilix for xfce4-terminal, due to Tilix lacking an active maintainer.
Enhanced visual aesthetics are also part of the package, with updated wallpapers including special anniversary designs, and support for modern image formats like JPEG-XL and Apple’s HEIF. Despite these upgrades, the update sees the removal of the X11 plank dock.
For current users of Ubuntu Budgie 24.04 LTS, there’s no automatic prompt to upgrade to 24.10, though they can do so manually. However, proceeding with an upgrade may reduce the stability and support timeframe of their current setup.
For those embarking on their Linux journey or curious minds wanting to explore Linux, Nathan Clark’s “Linux for Beginners: Why You’re Not Using Linux Yet and How to Overcome Command Line Fear” is a recommended read. Available in various formats, it offers newcomers an easy start with Linux.
Ubuntu Budgie 24.10 is indeed promising for both seasoned users seeking the latest refinements and newcomers eager to delve into the Linux ecosystem. Pack your digital toolkit, and dive into a refined desktop experience with added support for modern innovations.
