System76, a respected name in the Linux ecosystem, has made a significant switch from using Ubuntu to their own custom distribution, Pop!_OS, on its range of Linux-powered laptops and desktops. The reason behind this change, according to CEO Carl Richell, is the desire for greater consistency, a more polished desktop experience, and superior after-sales support for their customers.
During a conversation on the Tech Over Tea podcast on YouTube, Richell delved into the catalyst for this move – Canonical’s decision to transition from Unity to Gnome for its desktop environment. He highlighted that such major shifts can be jarring for users, sometimes causing disruptions in the user experience and leading to the loss of features and software support that had become mainstays for the community.
System76’s decision to create Pop!_OS was also heavily influenced by the focus on customer support. With minimal involvement in the development of Ubuntu at that point in time, Richell acknowledged that customers would often seek assistance from their hardware supplier—prompting System76 to take control of their OS to better serve their user base.
By developing Pop!_OS, System76 was not only able to tailor features and user-interface changes specifically to their customers’ needs but also distinguish their focus on desktop experiences. This stood in contrast to Canonical’s explorations into mobile and TV fronts at the time, highlighting the divergent priorities between the two companies.
As the conversation turned towards the evolution of Pop!_OS, Richell mentioned the progress on their proprietary desktop environment, Cosmic DE, written in Rust. He underscored the company’s commitment to a polished, unified product experience both on the desktop and across the web, emphasizing quick access to innovative features and robust hardware support as core objectives.
System76 plans to release the first public alpha of their Cosmic DE by the end of March 2024, aiming to further cement their OS as a compelling choice for Linux enthusiasts.
For those interested in exploring Linux gaming or seeking flexible hardware capable of running both Windows and Linux, alternatives such as the Valve Steam Deck or the Lenovo Legion could be optimal choices.
The shift to Pop!_OS signifies System76’s dedication to delivering a seamless, robust computing experience tailored for their hardware and clientele, showcasing the advantages of in-house OS development in meeting specific user requirements and service expectations.
