GNOME is set to make a change to its default UI and monospace fonts as it prepares for the release of GNOME 48. This update involves replacing the existing Cantarell font with a variation of the popular open-source sans font, Inter, now named Adwaita Sans. Additionally, a new monospace font, Adwaita Mono, will take the place of Source Code Pro. Adwaita Mono is a modified version of Iosevka, tailored to align more closely with Inter.
This decision isn’t entirely new; GNOME previously attempted to adopt Inter during the development of GNOME 47, but that switch was rolled back due to user interface inconsistencies and compatibility issues. The upcoming change for GNOME 48 represents a cautious retry of that initial plan.
While this typographic shift might not directly affect Ubuntu users—thanks to Ubuntu’s consistent customization of GNOME with its branding and preinstalled extensions—those interested in the new fonts may find them available in the plucky archives. Enthusiasts can opt to replace the default Ubuntu fonts with Adwaita Sans and Adwaita Mono if they choose.
Feedback from users on the new font selections compared to Cantarell is encouraged, highlighting the community’s involvement in shaping the aesthetic of their interface.
For more details on the fonts, you can check the official pages: