Ubuntu 7.10 (Gutsy Gibbon)

Yesterday I installed the latest stable release of Ubuntu 7.10 (Gutsy Gibbon). I have been keeping a track of Ubuntu from its 6.06 release, as it provides an easy to use Linux environment for non-geeks. Touted as the "Linux for Human Beings", Ubuntu really exceeds in the ease of use department. I usually recommend Ubuntu to all people who want a stable OS at minimum cost and has a SOHO computer usage pattern. The newest release, Ubuntu 7.10 (Gutsy Gibbon) has many new features over the last release 7.04. I found out some from using it yesterday, for most of the day and the rest from the 7.10 release notes. Here is a brief listing of the new features :

1. Genome v2.20, which means that we get :
   • access desktop search from the file chooser dialog
   • handy new features in the email client (Evolution)
   • easier and enhanced browsing of pictures
   • simplified system preferences, specially for non-geeks
2. Compiz Fusion will add the much desired eye-candy 3D Desktop Effects to the usually boring old desktop of Ubuntu.
3. Deskbar Applet which allows quick access to common actions like opening web bookmarks and searches and sending messages to all contacts.
4. Fast user switching
5. Firefox plugin finder wizard has been improved a lot and now provides an easy way to search and install packaged plugins.
6. Graphical configuration tool for X enables users to :
   • configure what driver to be used for graphic card
   • change the screen resolution for all users
   • change screen refresh rate without having to turn to the terminal
   • moreover, a new GUI has been added to adjust video and screen settings
7. Plug-n-play hassle free installation of printers
8. NTFS writing. Previously Ubuntu could only read from NTFS.
9. HDD encryption
10. Superior power management and accurate battery monitoring for laptops.

Users can also upgrade directly to 7.10 from 7.04 using the Update Manager, provided that one has updated the 7.04 system with all the patches that were released.