Ubuntu 10.04 has been launched following a last-minute scare with a major bug.
The Linux OS was reportedly experiencing major performance problems in dual-boot scenarios, which would effectively prevent the secondary operating system from booting. However, the issues were solved and Ubuntu 10.04 – so named because it’s due to launch in April 2010 – narrowly squeaked past it’s self-imposed deadline.
Ubuntu 10.04 includes a series of cosmetic and fundamental feature changes. The traditional brown Ubuntu desktop has been replaced with an attractive new purple interface, that reflects Ubuntu founder Mark Shuttleworth’s desire to compete aesthetically with rivals such as Apple.
Feature wise, the OS includes a new “Me Menu”, that drags in updates from various social-networking sites – including Twitter and Facebook – into a single window.
Ubuntu’s increased focus on consumer-friendly features is also reflected with the arrival of the Ubuntu One Music Store, which allows users to buy legal, DRM-free music directly within the operating system.
The new OS boasts a revamped “Wubi” installer and improved performance.
Ubuntu 10.04 is available for download here. There’s also a version of the OS optimised for netbooks here.
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