A new alpha version of System76’s COSMIC Desktop is now available, introducing significant improvements and new features. Despite being an early release, some users have adopted it as their main desktop environment, though many await the beta for a more polished experience. This release showcases how COSMIC’s user interface and app ecosystem are evolving.
Notable Changes in COSMIC Alpha 6
Accessibility Enhancements
Accessibility remains a priority in COSMIC, with the latest version adding a Desktop Zoom feature, accessible through various settings and key combinations. Users can also find toggles for screen reading and magnification within the Accessibility applet.
Workflow Improvements
New options for icon size and grid spacing allow users to customize their desktop experience further. The desktop now supports dragging files from the file manager directly onto it. Additionally, the COSMIC Launcher can now scroll when results exceed eight entries, and actions for power management come with a countdown timer to enhance usability.
Workspaces are improved, providing a scrollable overview, workspace previews, and the ability to drag minimized windows between workspaces.
With high-resolution displays being common, COSMIC Alpha 6 now features more precise scaling options, allowing fine-tuning of text size. Clicking on notifications now directs users to the respective applications directly.
App Enhancements
The COSMIC Files manager now supports tab completion in the location bar, improved scrolling and selection features, and can handle password-protected ZIP files. Meanwhile, COSMIC Edit adds functionality for reverting changes and enhancing search features.
The COSMIC Player has been upgraded to improve user interaction, displaying track information and artwork directly, as well as supporting MPRIS for integration with the Sound applet.
Other Improvements
COSMIC Alpha 6 also implemented various tweaks, including:
- Middle mouse button for copy/paste functionality.
- Font changes for improved aesthetics.
- Memory usage optimizations across apps.
- New window management settings for better layout control.
Bug fixes include better refresh rate handling in display settings, adaptation of application thumbnails, and improved interaction with KVM switches, among others.
Get Started with COSMIC Desktop
To try the COSMIC Desktop, users can download the new Pop!_OS 24.04 Alpha ISO, which includes COSMIC Alpha 6 pre-installed. This allows users to test it on physical hardware or in a virtual machine.
For more information, visit the System76 website.